SEVENTEEN’s Vernon & Dokyeom Announce Military Enlistment
Pledis Entertainment has officially announced that SEVENTEEN members Vernon and Dokyeom (DK) are set to begin fulfilling their mandatory military service. The news, shared on July 27, confirms their enlistment will commence in the summer and early fall of 2026, continuing the group’s carefully planned staggered approach to military duties.
Key Dates and Service Types Revealed
Specific dates have been provided for both members’ service. Vernon is scheduled to begin his alternative service, fulfilling social service agent duties, on August 20, 2026. Dokyeom will enlist as an active-duty soldier in the Army on September 8, 2026. These announcements offer clarity and allow CARATs to prepare for their temporary absence from group activities.
Pledis Entertainment’s Official Statement and Fan Guidelines
The agency conveyed the news directly to fans via SEVENTEEN’s Weverse community. Pledis confirmed that both Vernon and Dokyeom will complete all currently scheduled official activities without any disruption before their service begins. In a crucial request to fans, the agency asked CARATs to refrain from visiting the training center on enlistment day or Vernon’s alternative-service workplace. This plea is made out of respect for the shared nature of these spaces, which are utilized by many soldiers and their families.
The statement also offered reassuring words regarding the members’ connection with fans during their service. “Although Dokyeom and Vernon will no longer be able to participate in SEVENTEEN activities once their service starts, they have prepared various content in advance so they can continue to meet CARATs,” the company stated. Fans were also warmly invited to leave messages of support and encouragement on Weverse, fostering a sense of continued community.
Vernon’s Citizenship Choice and Commitment
A particularly significant detail highlighted in the announcement concerns Vernon’s personal choice. As a dual Korean-American citizen, Vernon had the option to choose solely American nationality, which would have exempted him from mandatory conscription in South Korea. However, he elected to maintain his Korean citizenship and fulfill his military obligation through alternative service. This decision underscores his commitment to his Korean heritage and responsibilities. Dokyeom, on the other hand, will serve the standard active-duty term as an Army soldier.
SEVENTEEN’s Staggered Enlistment Strategy Continues
This latest announcement aligns with SEVENTEEN’s strategic, staggered approach to military enlistment, a method designed to minimize prolonged hiatuses for the entire group. Several members have already either enlisted or recently been discharged, allowing for a more continuous flow of group activities. The highly anticipated full 13-member reunion is projected to occur around 2028, once all remaining members have completed their respective duties.
“218 Bros” Promise Pre-Recorded Content for CARATs
Vernon and Dokyeom, affectionately known as the “218 bros” by fans due to their incredibly close friendship, are committed to staying connected with CARATs throughout their service. Through a variety of pre-recorded content, fans can look forward to maintaining their bond with the duo, ensuring that their presence is felt even during their temporary absence from active promotions.
