SHINee's Key is all set to return to the global entertainment scene after serving South Korea's mandatory military service conscription.
On September 24, one SM Entertainment source stated that SHINee member Key is currently on his final leave and will be discharged on October 7 without returning to the military base to prevent COVID-19 spread and minimize physical contact with others.
Usually, after someone has completed their mandatory military service, one must go back to base before being discharged. But, since the COVID-19 pandemic is still on the rise, military bases have allowed soldiers not to come back to the base if they are using their vacation days up to the day of discharge.
Meanwhile, SHINee fans rallied on Twitter to celebrate Key's return to the music scene. A fan wrote, "Kibum is on his last vacation currently. He will be discharged from the military on October 7 without returning to his camp."
Another fan followed this tweet that wrote, "He is indeed on his vacation and will officially only discharge on October 7. He will not be returning to his camp, which is the cause of the COVID protocol that he does not have to. I hope this clears things up."
SHINee fans were relieved by this news and shared their excitement on the social platform, saying, "I am so happy that Ki-bum's (Key) is back like it is hard to describe the feeling. I am so proud of him for completing his duty. I am so relieved the hiatus is almost over, and can not wait to see him go back to doing what he does best."
SHINee's Key enlisted in the military on March 4, 2019, and he carried out his military duties as a member of the army band. He is the second member of the group to complete mandatory military service after Onew.
Meanwhile, SHINee's Minho is currently serving in the military.
