He’s back — and ready to work
After 18 months away, actor Kim Mingue has completed his mandatory military service. He enlisted on April 1, 2024, serving as an active-duty soldier in the South Korean Army. On June 30, 2025, he was officially discharged, marking his return to the spotlight — and to his fans worldwide.
A message straight from Kim Mingue
Through his agency, Companion Company, Kim expressed gratitude to fans for their unwavering support. “First, I want to thank all the fans who waited so long for me,” he said. “During my time in the military, I was able to grow a lot. I look forward to meeting everyone again soon through a great project.”
His agency added, “We’re planning to support Kim Mingue wholeheartedly as he resumes his activities. Thank you to all the fans who waited, and please continue to send love and interest Kim’s way.”
From rom-coms to fantasy — Kim’s versatile screen journey
Kim Mingue made his debut back in 2013 with tvN’s Monster. Since then, he’s been quietly building an impressive resume, appearing in dramas like Signal, Because This Is My First Life, Perfume, and Queen: Love and War. But it was his standout roles in Backstreet Rookie and Snowdrop that began turning heads.
Of course, global fame knocked when he played Cha Sung-hoon — the loyal, swoon-worthy secretary — in the hit 2022 office rom-com Business Proposal. That role cemented him as a rising Hallyu heartthrob.
More recently, in The Heavenly Idol, Kim wowed audiences by pulling off a dual-role performance as both a high priest from another dimension and an idol star named Woo Yeon-woo. Yes, it was as gloriously chaotic as it sounds — and fans loved every second.
What’s next for the newly-returned star?
While no new projects have been confirmed yet, expectations are sky-high. Given his growing international fanbase and post-military glow-up (a K-drama rite of passage), plenty of producers are likely lining up to offer him leading roles. Don’t be surprised if he’s headlining another viral hit before the year is out.
But until then, fans are just happy to have him back. Welcome home, Kim Mingue — and bring on the next drama binge.
