Where Are the iKON Members Now (2024)?

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As a big fan of iKON, I can’t help but be in awe of how these talented young men continue to grow and evolve both as artists and individuals. Bobby’s decision to join the military was unexpected yet admirable; his heartfelt letter to fans showed his maturity and dedication to serving his country. Although we’ll miss him, I believe this experience will make him come back stronger and more awesome than ever.

Having been a long-time fan of iKON since their debut under YG Entertainment back in 2015, I can’t help but feel a sense of curiosity and excitement as I delve into where the group’s members stand now in 2024, following their departure from the label in 2022.

In 2015, iKON by YG Entertainment introduced seven members: Jay, Song, Bobby, DK, June, Chan, and B.I., originally named Kim Hanbin. However, in 2019, B.I. departed from the group. Three years later, in 2022, the remaining iKON members ended their agreement with YG Entertainment and joined forces with 143 Entertainment instead.

iKON military line?????

— sara ᜊ (@jiwonscherry) July 24, 2024

iKON Members: Where are they now in 2024?

Upon signing with 143 Entertainment, iKON members commenced a fresh chapter in their K-pop journey. In May 2023, they returned to the music industry with the debut of their Take Off album. However, around a year after this release, certain iKON members announced they would be taking a break for mandatory military service.

As an excited fan, I must share some disappointing news: we’ll need to be patient a little longer before iKON members come together again. In the meantime, let me take you on a journey of discovering what each member has been up to lately in 2024.

Jay (Kim Jinhwan)

On July 6, 2023, Kim Jinhwan, better known as Jay, made an announcement via Instagram about his upcoming military enlistment. Exactly three months after the release of their new album, Jay informed fans that he would report for military duty on July 20, 2023.

I can understand the deep sense of regret that Jay feels as he reflects on all the preparations he had made and the things he longed to share with his fans. His experience of having waited for the right moment to present these creations to his audience, only to be faced with unexpected circumstances, is undoubtedly disheartening. His compassionate nature comes through as he considers how his absence may affect his devoted followers, causing him further sadness. Despite this, Jay remains committed to fulfilling his responsibilities and promises a swift return. He urges his fans to find strength in their shared connection and wishes them well. It’s evident that Jay holds his role as an artist in high regard and places great value on the bond he shares with his audience.

Prior to reporting for military duty in an undisclosed date, Jay had already released his mini album titled Blue Moon on the 18th of July. Presently, he is carrying out his mandatory service in the South Korean military as a public worker. He is projected to complete his term and be discharged by April 2025, according to the standard military protocols.

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A post shared by 김진환 JAY ジナン (@gnani_____)

Song

IKON’s Song Yunhyeong, also known as Song, the renowned K-pop star, has shared that he will be taking a break from his music career for military service. At the age of 29, he will join the South Korean military training program on August 13, 2024.

Before Song Yunhyung went for military service, 143 Entertainment, his music label, informed him that he would first engage with his fans, iKONIC, prior to enlisting. This was disclosed due to safety reasons, implying that there wouldn’t be any formal event during the day of Song’s enlistment.

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A post shared by 송윤형 (@sssong_yh)

Bobby

In a shocking turn of events, Bobby, whose real name is Kim Jiwon, stunned fans in 2024 by announcing his plans to join the military. Following the release of his highly anticipated comeback album, Sir. Robert, on February 28, 2024, 143 Entertainment disclosed that Bobby would begin military training later in the year. True to his word, the talented 29-year-old rapper reported for duty on June 6, 2024.

In a heartfelt farewell message, Bobby penned down his feelings in a handwritten letter to his devoted fans prior to leaving the military. He shared on Instagram: “I deeply miss each one of you. Being here brings back so many memories, and I’m filled with regret for not being able to serve you all better.”

I apologize for not expressing enough gratitude when I encountered challenges. But fear not, when the flowers bloom again, I’ll return stronger and more impressive than before. In the meantime, you’ve got two options: face your hardships head-on and emerge victorious or choose to remain as you are. I’ll be here, waiting with a tinge of sadness until then.

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A post shared by 김지원 (@bobbyindaeyo)

DK

In a solo move for iKON’s lead dancer Kim Donghyuk, he dropped his debut mini-album titled “Nakseo” on February 15, 2024. This K-pop sensation introduced nine tracks in this collection, with “Grooving” being one of them. Bobby and Punch graced the album as collaborative artists, contributing their talents to the songs “Still In My” and “Dickey,” respectively.

DK’s First Solo “Nakseo[Love]” – Long-Awaited Teaser

— iKON GLOBAL iKONIC (@iKONIC_143) February 6, 2024

June

Koo Junhoe, known as the lead singer of iKON, began acting a few years ago at the age of 27. He made appearances in popular Korean dramas such as True to Love and Twinkling Watermelon. In the year 2024, Junhoe of iKON captivated fans with his first movie role in Again 1997.

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A post shared by 구준회 (@juneeeeeeya)

Chan

iKON’s youngest member, Jung Chanwoo, also known as Chan, surprised many when he joined the military at the age of 26 in May 2024. His mandatory service is scheduled to conclude by November 2024.

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A post shared by 정찬우 (@chan_w000)

In 2025, Bobby, Chanwoo, Song, and Jay from iKONICS will return following completion of their military service. Excitement abounds among fans, eagerly anticipating the fresh developments that await as the group embarks on a new journey together.

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2024-07-24 15:12