On May 3, SM Entertainment released a statement, and spirits were broken. 

The statement entailed the enlistment date of Exo member Kai (Kim Jong-in). 

Hello. This is SM Entertainment.

We have come to relay sudden news to fans regarding Kais military service.

Kai was preparing for EXOs comeback scheduled for this year, but due to a recent change in regulations of the Military Manpower Administration, he is set to enter the army recruit training center on May 11 where he will receive basic military training, and he will then serve as a public service worker.

In respect of Kais intention to enlist quietly, his enlistment location and time will not be revealed, and there will be no special event on the day of, so we ask for the understanding of fans.

Regarding the plans for EXOs album, we will inform you once the details are sorted out.

Thank you.

Broken hearted, fans grieved. 

During an IG live, the singer shed tears from being unable to do a solo concert as well as the EXO comeback due to the sudden news. 

EXO's Kai Sheds Tears While Thanking Fans For Their Support Before His Unexpected Military Enlistmenthttps://t.co/EWELLuodWj

— Koreaboo (@Koreaboo) May 3, 2023

In a fan meet yesterday (May 9), which was livestreamed, he also prepared a goodbye speech for his fans. 

@exoxmyeon we know uri jongin will look so cool tomorrow‍ #exo #fyp #xyzbca #kai #military #exoxmyeon in the stars - sami rose

@exoxmyeon Replying to @exoxmyeon you too promise to take care & always be happy #exo #fyp #xyzbca #kai #military #exoxmyeon in the stars - sami rose

@exoxmyeon Replying to @exoxmyeon this is so #exo #fyp #xyzbca #kai #military #exoxmyeon in the stars - sami rose

Here's wishing the singer all the best and a safe but also speedy enlistment period!