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.