SEVENTEEN’s Vernon Says ‘I’ll Be Back’ With New Single as He Enlists in South Korean Military
SEVENTEEN member Vernon released a new solo single, "I'll Be Back," on 20 August, just hours after entering a training centre to begin his mandatory military service in South Korea. The self-written and self-composed track functions as a sentimental farewell to fans, with lyrics addressed directly to the group's supporters as he steps away from his career for the duration of his service.
The electronic pop song was first performed at Vernon's V8 LIVE concert in July, where it proved popular before its studio release. He will complete basic training before continuing his mandatory duty as a social service worker, with an expected discharge date of 19 May 2028; his agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, has asked fans not to visit his training centre or future workplace. Vernon has been part of SEVENTEEN since its 2015 debut, with the group notching six consecutive top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 through 2024.
In short
- Vernon releases farewell single "I'll Be Back" as he starts military service
- Expected discharge date is 19 May 2028
- SEVENTEEN has had six straight top 10 Billboard 200 albums
Explained simply
South Korea requires most men to complete military service, usually through active duty or an approved alternative role. Vernon, a member of the K-pop group SEVENTEEN since its 2015 debut, is beginning his service as a social service worker after basic training.
SEVENTEEN is a group whose members have also pursued solo projects. Vernon’s departure means a pause in his usual work with the group, while his single gives fans a piece of music created for this period away. His expected discharge is in May 2028.
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