A newly debuted K-pop idol is gaining attention for having already completed his mandatory military service at just 22 years old.
Korean star Rain giving military salute. | AFP
Lee Cheongmyeong officially debuted on January 5 as a member of MODHAUS’ boy group idntt and its subunit yesweare.
Born in June 2003, he is also the leader of both teams, a notable role for a rookie idol who has just begun his career.
Shortly after his debut, fans revealed that Cheongmyeong had already fulfilled his military enlistment before entering the industry.
A photo of the rookie in his uniform shared on X (formerly Twitter) quickly went viral. The story drew attention from both domestic and international fans, as most male idols typically complete their service years after debut.
좋은 오후네요 ꒰՞˶ˊᵕˋ˶՞꒱
청명이 데뷔 하루 남은 거 기념해서 언제 올릴까 고민했던 군대 청명 올립니다😽
보송보송 말랑말랑하니 참 귀엽죠?
우리 아이 군필이에요🫳🏻🫳🏻#idntt #아이덴티티 #アイデンティティ #yesweare #이청명 #leecheongmyeong pic.twitter.com/hq0kAQr7qu
— 하루 (@cheongmyeongday) January 4, 2026
Good afternoon ꒰՞˶ˊᵕˋ˶՞꒱
Since Cheongmyeong’s debut is just one day away, I’m finally posting this “army Cheongmyeong” photo I’d been wondering when to share 😽
So soft and squishy-looking—so cute, right?
Our kid has already completed his military service 🫳🏻🫳🏻
— Fan via X
While little is known about Cheongmyeong due to his recent debut, the military enlistment story has helped him stand out early, particularly as he balances leadership responsibilities with promotions.
Cheongmyeong is not the only rookie to attract attention for this reason. Previously, AHOF’s Jeongwoo, now 24, also made headlines after it was revealed he had completed his military service prior to debut.
5th Gen Rookie Goes Viral For Having Already Completed His Military Enlistement