After reports that this 20-year-old boy group member silently enlisted in the military, his fandom and internet users expressed mixed reactions to the sudden report.

NewKidd Hwi Enlists In Military As Active Duty Soldier

On November 8, it has been reported that Hwi, a member of the boy group Newkidd will begin his military service in the army.

On the same day J-FLO Entertainment, the male idol's agency reported the news through its official social media platforms.

"Newkidd member Hwi will join the army as an active duty soldier today. As the nation continues mourning due to the Itaewon disaster, we will proceed with the admission behind closed doors in respect of the artist's intention to enter quietly."

Hwi himself also broke the news to its fandom through its official Daum fancafe. He greeted fans and said:

"Hello, This is Hwi.

First, I would like to thank our fans who cheered for us and because of that, we were always happy with the memories we had together.

Today, I came up with a brave decision to become a more mature person in a meaningful time for a year and a half. I'll promise to come back in good health.

Until then, I hope our fans will stay healthy and happy.Thank you."

Hwi made an appearance to the public in July 2018 with Newkidd's second preview album, "Boy Boy Boy." Since then, he made his official debut as Newkidd in 2019 and has released songs such as, "Tu Eres" and "Come."

Previously, Newkidd released the music and music video of the special single, "VICTORY" on November 7.

Newkidd Hwi Enlistment Draws Divided Reactions – Here's Why

Following the report, K-pop enthusiasts, particularly the supporters of the male idol conveyed mixed reactions about Hwi's sudden enlistment.

A lot of fans cheered on the idol and wished him good health throughout his service, respecting his decision.

However, numerous fans are disappointed that J-FLO decided to send Hwi to the military for two reasons.

First, fans think that he's too young and actually has a lot of time before he will be summoned by the army.

In particular, Hwi was born on September 26, 2002, and he just turned 20 this year. While most male idols delayed their enlistment until they are 30 after a discussion with the agency, Hwi decided to enter at a young age with the company's permission.

Fans commented:

• "Why? he's too young?"
• "What's the reason he's entering too early?"
• "It's good that he will end his service early, but I think he's too young."
• "He's the first idol I know who entered the army at a young age."

The second reason is that fans think Hwi's enlistment is not at the right time.

Following hiatus of about two years, the group just released a new single on the 7th, and the fans weren't able to enjoy content and promotion from the group due to the news. Fans expressed frustration with J-FLO and emphasized that the agency should have at least prepared content to console fans' sadness.

After all, fans are anticipating a comeback from the full group because Hansol who entered the military first last year will be coming back this November 21.

Unfortunately, Hwi entered the army even before Hansol was discharged, breaking the fans' expectations of getting a full comeback with the complete members.

READ MORE: Where Is Ji Hansol Now? Former SM Entertainment Trainee Who Almost Debuted In NCT

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Written by Eunice Dawson.