Pledis Entertainment announced on July 27 that SEVENTEEN members Vernon and Dokyeom (DK) will begin fulfilling their mandatory military service this summer and early fall.
Vernon will start alternative service (social service agent duties) on August 20, 2026. Dokyeom will enlist as an active-duty soldier in the Army on September 8, 2026.
The agency shared the news via the group’s Weverse community, stating that both members will complete all currently scheduled official activities without disruption before their service begins. Fans were asked to refrain from visiting the training center on enlistment day or Vernon’s alternative-service workplace, as these are shared spaces for many soldiers and their families.
“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 statement read. The company also invited fans to leave messages of support and encouragement on Weverse.
Vernon, who holds dual Korean-American citizenship, had the option of choosing solely American nationality and thereby avoiding conscription. He elected instead to maintain his Korean citizenship and fulfill his military obligation through alternative service rather than active-duty Army service. Dokyeom will serve the standard active-duty term.
This continues SEVENTEEN’s staggered approach to military service, with several members already enlisted or recently discharged. A full 13-member reunion is anticipated once the remaining members complete their duties, projected around 2028.
Both Vernon and Dokyeom, often called the “218 bros” by fans for their close friendship, are expected to stay connected with CARATs through pre-recorded content during their service periods.