Stray Kids’ Lee Know Will Enlist in Early 2027
Stray Kids’ Lee Know is scheduled to begin his mandatory military service in the first quarter of 2027. JYP Entertainment announced it on November 5 through the group’s official social media accounts. He will be the first Stray Kids member to enlist.
What the notice says
The statement is short. Lee Know may miss some activities planned for the first quarter of 2027. Before he leaves, he will keep meeting fans through content and individual activities. JYP also acknowledged that the news may come as a surprise to STAY, the fandom, and asked for their understanding.
A window, not a date
No enlistment date has been announced. The type of service has not been announced either. JYP said it will share the details it can’t give yet in a separate notice. Brazilian outlet SpaceMoney reports the agency gave no information on lineup changes or on how group projects will continue during that period.
For general context, an earlier Korea Herald report said K-pop singers who serve typically spend about 18 to 22 months on duty, and many now return to their groups afterward.
He said it in August
Lee Know spoke about enlistment at the press conference for the mini album THIS & THAT on August 6 at Conrad Seoul in Yeouido. The album came out the next day. He said he would carry out his national service sincerely when called. He also said, “One thing is certain: we will reunite.”
Lee Know was born on October 25, 1998. He is the group’s main dancer.
Who else is eligible
Six of Stray Kids’ eight members are required to serve: Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Seungmin and I.N, according to Brazilian outlet Recreio. JYP has not shared plans for anyone other than Lee Know.
Himself first
In an October 2025 interview with Harper’s Bazaar Korea, Lee Know said he believes he has to be his own first priority, because he can’t do anything if he falls apart. He added that he wants to build himself up from the inside, and that he doesn’t mean raising a measurable value. He gave that answer a year before the enlistment notice.
