Trot Star Jung Dong Won Enlists in Marines

Singer Jeong Dong-won, who voluntarily enlisted in the Marine Corps, has shared an update on his status. KFN (formerly Defense TV) broadcast live the completion ceremony for the 1327th class of Marine recruits on the 2nd via YouTube. Jeong Dong-won, born in 2007, entered the Marine Corps Training Command on February 23rd, completed his basic military training, and attended the ceremony. Captured on camera during the event, Jeong Dong-won drew attention with his noticeably more dignified appearance and healthy, tanned skin, a result of his training.

Jeong Dong-won had previously expressed his desire to enlist in the Marines through platforms like YouTube. Upon seeing his first public appearance since enlisting, fans cheered him on, saying, "He's a real soldier, so cool and commendable," and "I'm crying because I'm so proud."

According to the Marine Corps Training Command, among the 1327th class of recruits who completed their training that day, Private Kim Jun-young's family has a four-generation history of serving in the Marines, following his great-grandfather (3rd class), grandfather (173rd class), and father (754th class). The 1,319 recruits of the 1327th class, who enlisted on February 23rd, completed their basic military training and specialized Marine Corps training before graduating. Kim Soo-yong, head of the Training Command, encouraged them, stating, "I am confident that the 1327th class will be the main players at this crucial time when the Marine Corps is establishing its status in the four-branch military system."

Singer Jeong Dong-won announced his status on his Instagram on the 3rd, saying, "Victory! This is Private Jeong Dong-won. To all my 'Woocheong' girlfriends, I have successfully completed my training!" He conveyed a message to his fans: "Thank you for your concern and support! I will continue to work hard. I miss 'Woocheong'! Please wait a little longer. I am always sorry, grateful, and I love you." He also expressed his determination, saying, "To all the platoon leaders at the New Recruit Training Battalion 2, thank you so much for these six weeks! I will work hard in my actual post as well! 1327th class, let's all fight until the day we are honorably discharged without getting hurt. Victory!"

In the released photos, Jeong Dong-won appears more dignified after enlisting in the Marines, shedding his boyish image. His tanned face from training and his sharp salute are impressive. Fellow celebrities, including singers Lim Young-woong, Young Tak, Lee Chan-won, Kim Hee-jae, and broadcaster Jang Sung-kyu, also sent their support.