Popular South Korean actor Kim Young-dae is stepping away from showbiz for a year as he begins mandatory military service in April, Kim’s agency confirmed. Kim Young-dae, 30, popularly known for his character in The Penthouse: War in Life, will serve as an active-duty soldier for over a year, confirmed his agency OUTERUNIVERSE. The agency also noted, “He will fulfil his duty to the country and take a pause from his acting career.” As per his schedule he will be completing his services and returning in October 2027.

Kim Young-dae has been preparing for the service

Reports suggest that Kim Young-dae had earlier received a Grade 3 classification, meaning he is physically fit for active-duty enlistment. He has been preparing for this process for some time, waiting for official confirmation from the Ministry of National Defence, which was slightly delayed.

Although Kim Young-dae hasn’t commented on this, in earlier interviews, he mentioned this phase of his life and described it as ‘a short pause in a long journey that is ahead’.  He even mentioned that he would connect with fellow stars Kim Do-hoon and Kim Yoo-jung during his service period.

Kim Young-dae has a positive outlook

Actor Kim Young-dae never fears losing momentum, rather he sees this as a fresh start. “It feels like a new beginning. This time will provide an opportunity to reflect, prepare, and return stronger,” Kim noted.

Currently Kim Young-dae has not taken up any projects; fans will wait for their actor to be discharged. He has a large, loyal fanbase that appreciates his versatile work in famous dramas like Extraordinary You, Sh**ting Stars, The Forbidden Marriage, Moon in the Day, among others.