K-pop star Kai of the boy group EXO has officially completed his mandatory military service, sparking excitement among fans for a potential full group comeback.
Kai, whose real name is Kim Jong-in, was discharged on Monday after working as a social service worker for 21 months.
The 31-year-old singer and dancer surprised fans when he enlisted in May 2023. During his military service, Kai underwent five weeks of basic military training and was later assigned to social service duties.
Following his discharge, Kai made his first public appearance through a special live broadcast titled "KAI: Happily Ever After" on Tuesday, allowing him to reconnect with fans who have been awaiting his return. The event was broadcast on WeVerse.
Kai's exit from military service means Sehun is now the only member of EXO who has yet to be discharged. The idol is scheduled to complete his military service in September.
Read more: Suho and Chanyeol Prove Why EXO Is K-pop Royalty With Their Visuals, Electrifying 'Get It Up!' Cover
Hints of a Potential Comeback
With Kai now discharged from the military, EXO could work on a full group comeback after Sehun leaves service. Suho, another member of the K-pop act, recently hinted at plans for EXO during January's SMTOWN LIVE concert.
"Sehun and Kai will be discharged from the military soon, and they'll be back! So this year, 2025, please look forward to EXO," he said during the event.
It is worth noting that SM Entertainment has yet to make any official announcements regarding a comeback. EXO last made a whole group comeback in 2023 with the release of their special album, Exist.
Some members, including Kai, resumed their solo activities. He is also scheduled to release a new EP in the second quarter of 2025.
The album was the first time EXO released music with a seven-member lineup. Kai and Lay were absent due to military service and solo activities in China, respectively. That said, EXO has not released any new music as a full nine-member group since 2021.
