Group Monsta X's eldest member, Shownu (Son Hyunwoo), is set to be discharged from the military today (21st).

Shownu enlisted as the first Monsta X member on July 21, 2021. After undergoing eye surgery for retinal detachment, Shownu was deemed unfit for active duty and served as a public service worker to fulfill his national defense duty.

At the time of his enlistment, Shownu wrote on the fan cafe, "I have taken a brief hiatus to fulfill my national defense duty. It feels like just yesterday that I debuted, but now it's time to go to the army. I've spent meaningful and valuable time with my members and fans while actively working, enjoying, and struggling together."

He continued, "The support and love I received from fans during that time were immense and not something that can be exchanged between people. I'm grateful for the many experiences and feelings Monsta X's activities have given me. I will do my best to repay you, and I hope we continue to have a great time with Monsta X and Shownu."

Shownu expressed his gratitude, "Thank you for teaching me that 'I can live a new day every day.' I'm not sure if the life I'm living now, the path I've chosen, is better or worse than the original one, or if it's even undeservingly abundant. I just think that being happy is about feeling a mix of gratitude, love, resentment, and disappointment. Leaving good and bad lives aside, I think I'm a happy person. It seems that I'm a bit anxious since I'm talking about my life even when I can't be active for a while."

He added, "Anyway, thank you and always be happy and healthy. The letter ends abruptly. Love you always. I love you, and we'll meet soon. From Shownu."

To ease fans' longing during his hiatus, Shownu shared various pre-recorded content. He released his solo content "SHOWNUayo" monthly and participated in Monsta X's singles "KISS OR DEATH" and the American single "One Day." He also appeared in the movie "Seoul Strange Story."

In September of last year, Shownu visited Monsta X's solo concert in Seoul and cheered for the members from the audience, waving his Monstick (lightstick). After the official concert ended, he briefly showed off the intro vibrating dance of "Shoot Out" during the encore stage at the request of members and fans, drawing cheers.

Expectations are high for Shownu's next steps after returning to the embrace of Monbebe (fandom) and completing his national defense duties. Shownu had re-signed with Starship Entertainment before enlisting.

Meanwhile, with member Minhyuk enlisting as an active-duty soldier on the 4th, Monsta X plans to continue their activities as a five-member group with Shownu, Kihyun, Hyungwon, Jooheon, and I.M.

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