[OSEN=Park So-young] Actor Na In-woo had previously stepped down from a successful variety show to fulfill his military duties and had paused his acting activities, but contrary to his farewell, he has been exempted from military service.
On the 17th, a media outlet reported through an entertainment industry insider, “Na In-woo was recently exempted from military service while waiting to be called up as a social service agent.” After being classified as a level 4 reserve in the military physical examination, Na In-woo was waiting for induction but did not receive a summons from the Military Manpower Administration, eventually being exempted after three years.
In response, his agency, Hanada Company, told OSEN, “Actor Na In-woo recently received a military exemption from the Military Manpower Administration. He was classified as a level 4 reserve and was waiting for induction but became eligible for exemption after not receiving a call-up notice for three years.” The reason for his classification as a level 4 reserve was not disclosed.
Amidst this, Na In-woo’s farewell from ‘2 Days & 1 Night’ in July last year comes to mind. Having joined the show in 2022 as Kim Seon-ho’s replacement, Na In-woo captivated viewers with his clumsy yet endearing charm. He managed to increase his recognition and likability more than during his acting days, serving as the quirky character of the show.
However, due to his impending military service, he decided to leave alongside senior member Yeon Jung-hoon. During the final recording, Na In-woo expressed gratitude, saying, “Thanks to the strength of all the viewers, I was able to enjoy the journey with ‘2 Days & 1 Night.’ I’m proud to have shown some growth though I was often inexperienced. Thank you sincerely,” and bowed deeply towards the audience.
The viewers of ‘2 Days & 1 Night’ tearfully bid farewell to Na In-woo. Yet, over five months passed without news of his enlistment before the sudden news of his exemption was announced. Fans couldn’t help but be puzzled. Given Na In-woo’s rising popularity due to the drama ‘Marry My Husband’ and variety show ‘2 Days & 1 Night,’ it is regrettable that he is now entangled in a sensitive military issue.
Netizens have mixed reactions. Some raise doubts about the circumstances of him being exempted after waiting for three years, while others call him ‘Lucky In-woo’ for his fortunate administrative turn of events.
Meanwhile, Na In-woo is set to appear alongside Lee Se-young in the new MBC Friday-Saturday drama ‘Motel California,’ set to premiere on January 10, 2025. The series follows the story of a woman, who was born and raised in a rural motel, reuniting with her first love after 12 years in her hometown, exploring the ups and downs of remodeling her first love story.
Na In-woo will portray the character Cheon Yeon-soo, whose life is completely altered upon reuniting with his first love, Kang Hee (played by Lee Se-young), after 12 years, marking his first lead romantic role.