Sailor Taeyong thriving
It is nearing a year since Taeyong joined the R.O.K Navy as part of his military service. What can we observe thus far about this experience?
It’s been a hot minute since I’ve posted about Taeyong’s journey. Life among other things got in the way and therefore, whilst I was fully supportive and engaged during Taeyong’s TAP promotions, I was actually living in Seoul at the time and was fully immersed in the experience. Consequently, being busy with work as well as living amongst the thick of Kpop and in Taeyong’s city, I was a little sidetracked. That said, Taeyong entered the military in April 2024, and as we near his one year navy anniversary, I feel it’s time to swing back to this Substack.
One thing I will say about Taeyong’s military journey thus far, is that it’s inspiring to observe how this period has become a transformative chapter in his life.
A Cathartic Respite
The transition from the relentless pace of idol life to the structured environment of military service has offered Taeyong a unique opportunity for introspection and personal growth. Away from the constant public scrutiny and demanding schedules, he has embraced this time to focus on his well-being. Engaging in daily training routines, Taeyong has enhanced his physical fitness, leading to a more robust physique. This physical transformation mirrors an internal journey towards mental clarity and resilience, allowing him to reconnect with himself and reflect on his aspirations. The short glimpses we’ve gotten through his Instagram uploads, is indicative that his time in the military has been one of growth and reflection. It’s also evidently something he is proud of judging by his prominent uploads in his Navy gear and with his Navy counterparts.
Brotherhood in the Navy
Beyond personal development, Taeyong has immersed himself in the camaraderie of military life. His assignment to the Navy's public relations unit as a singer soldier has enabled him to continue his passion for music in a new context. In a heartfelt video titled "5-Second Interview with Navy Corporal Lee Taeyong," he warmly introduced himself, stating,
"Hello, I am Navy Public Relations singer soldier Private Lee Taeyong."
This role has not only kept his artistic spirit alive but also fostered deep connections with his fellow servicemen, strengthening bonds through shared experiences and mutual support. Taeyong's own social media uploads, along with those shared by his fellow navy peers, offer a glimpse into the deep camaraderie he has forged during his service. This newfound brotherhood is more than just companionship—it is a vital foundation, helping him build connections beyond the world of entertainment. Unlike the industry circles he has long been immersed in, many of the men he now stands beside come from ordinary, humble backgrounds, untouched by the glare of fame. For Taeyong, who has spent much of his life in the relentless pursuit of artistic excellence under the public eye, these relationships provide a rare and necessary sense of balance. In sharing experiences with those whose lives are far removed from the entertainment industry, he is granted a grounding force—one that allows him to reconnect with a quieter, more authentic version of himself.
Unwavering Commitment to NCT 127
Despite his military commitments, Taeyong's dedication to his NCT 127 bandmates remains unwavering. Before his enlistment, he expressed his affection for his fellow members, stating, "There are many things I want to achieve in the future, so I will work hard during my military service and learn many things. I will become a better person and stand on stage." His enduring support underscores the unbreakable bond within NCT 127, reflecting a relationship that transcends physical presence.
In a recent heartwarming episode, Taeyong made a surprise visit to Seoul to support his fellow NCT 127 members, Haechan and Mark, during their recording session at MC Countdown. According to fans who attended the pre-recording to support Mark and Haechan (MaHae), an unexpected yet heartwarming moment unfolded when Taeyong suddenly appeared, makeup box in hand. His unannounced arrival left everyone bewildered, with murmurs of “Huh? What’s going on?” filling the room. Even Mark and Haechan, completely unaware of his visit, were taken aback by the surprise. As soon as he spotted him backstage, Mark couldn’t contain his excitement, exclaiming, “Taeyong hyung is here!” In a spontaneous display of affection, he lifted Taeyong up from behind, presenting him to the cheering fans.
The warmth of the moment continued as Mark and Haechan wrapped up their recording and went down to check the monitors. Taeyong, ever the caring leader, pulled out tissues from his bag and gently wiped the sweat from Haechan’s face, a quiet yet touching gesture that spoke volumes about their bond. To make this reunion happen, Taeyong drove nearly three hours from his military base in Gyeryong to Seoul, arriving at 1 AM just to surprise his bandmates. Despite his demanding schedule, he stayed with them until the recording concluded, proving once again that his dedication to NCT 127 transcends any distance or obligation. This visit not only highlights Taeyong's dedication to his members but also emphasizes the deep bonds formed within NCT 127, bonds that persist regardless of physical distance or individual commitments.
Reflections on Social Media
Taeyong has maintained a connection with fans through thoughtful social media updates. He revealed his military buzz cut ahead of his enlistment, sharing a heartfelt message expressing his determination to return safely and his affection for his fellow members.
In the interim, he’s also uploaded several pics of him training, on leave with his navy peers, and a heartwarming and humorous series of images with his family celebrating Seollal (Korean lunar new year). These updates offer fans a glimpse into his evolving persona, showcasing a matured and introspective side of Taeyong during his military service.
A Positive Transformation
Comparing Taeyong's pre-enlistment persona to his current demeanor reveals a profound transformation. The pressures of public scrutiny have been replaced with a grounded sense of purpose. His time in the military appears to have been cathartic, offering him a chance to reconnect with himself and emerge stronger, both mentally and physically. For me, some of the most interesting posts he’s made have a deeper meaning giving me a glimpse into his evolving emotional, physical and psychological wellbeing.
The first image was one where he resembles Cillian Murphy in Peaky Blinders. It’s well known that Taeyong has a penchant for the series, frequently referencing the show and the constant whiskey drinking. This image, is indicative to me that he sees himself as a modern day Tommy Shelby- someone who’s experienced many emotional hardships in life, but with sheer perseverance and purpose, soldiers on ready to embrace life.
The next image leaving a lasting impression on me was the one where he’s sitting in what appears to be a traditional Korean jjimjilbang. Taeyong is seen sitting on a floor covered with small pebbles or salt crystals, surrounding by walls that appear to be made of stone or brick, giving a rustic, natural look often associated with outdoor or traditional saunas. He’s sitting in front of a glowing panel with a grid-like structure emitting a warm, reddish light typical of infrared saunas. Infrared heaters emit radiant heat, which is absorbed directly by the body, unlike traditional saunas that heat the air. They are replete with health benefits, including improved circulation, detoxification, and relaxation and are supposed to reach the mitochondria to heal the body at the cellular level. Why is this image so valuable to me? I have also recently embarked on an infra red journey of healing, and its seems that Taeyong has also found some benefits in using traditional and modern elements, to heal and nurture his physical body, demonstrating his commitment to health and longevity.
The final image may seem unassuming at first glance, yet it speaks volumes about Taeyong’s personal interests and the values he chooses to share with his followers. This time, he offers a quiet, almost poetic composition: a lamp glowing softly, casting its light over a basket filled with vinyl LPs.
Why is this significant? If nothing else, Taeyong himself deemed it meaningful enough to capture and share. To me, this image beautifully encapsulates his deep-rooted connection to nostalgia and music, with the vinyl records serving as a powerful symbol of both. His musical curiosity is undeniable, evident in the way he frequently shares different songs and sounds, reflecting his ever-evolving artistic sensibilities. By choosing to highlight LPs—a relic of a pre-digital era—Taeyong subtly acknowledges an appreciation for music in its tangible, physical form. It suggests a longing for a time when albums were cherished not just for the songs they contained, but for their material presence, their artistry, and their connection to the past. In this single image, he invites us into his world, offering a glimpse of how he experiences and values music beyond the fleeting nature of digital consumption.
As we await his return, it's reassuring to know that Taeyong is thriving in this chapter of his life. His journey serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability that define him—not just as an artist, but as an individual.