Lee Junki starts mandatory military service
| May 13th, 2010 |
In a move that surprised his fans and his colleagues in the entertainment business, Korean heartthrob Lee Junki, 28, has started his military training last May 3.
For his five week training, Lee reported to the Nonsan National Army Training Center in South Chungcheong province. Before entering the camp, Lee met with and spoke before the media and hundreds of his fans who were waiting to bid him goodbye.
Lee thanked all his fans for coming to see him for the last time before his enlistment. He also said he felt sorry that he was unable to finish his projects. He tried to fight back his tears as he spoke to his fans.
His agency explained that the notice for Lee’s immediate enlistment came last month but they requested that this be reset until the latter part of the year. However, the Korean military rejected the requested and ordered Lee to report on May 3.
With his enlistment, Lee had to give up two projects: the film “Grand Prix” and the drama “Faith.”
“Grand Prix” was already being filmed when Lee’s order came. With this, Lee had no choice but to return payments he already received for the film.
The two-year military service is mandatory for all Korean males.
Lee is one of the most admired celebrities not only in South Korea but also overseas including Japan and China.
Besides acting, he is also into singing. He released his second album “J Style” last year.
He starred in several Korean dramas including “Drama City” in 2004, “My Girl” in 2005, “101st Proposal” in 2006 and “Iljimae” in 2008.
He was appointed as tourism ambassador of the Korea Tourism Organization last year.
Source : Mb
