From Apron to Armor: Park Ji-hoon Military Enlistment Claims the Marines!
Wielding a kitchen knife on screen is one thing, but jumping out of military helicopters in real life? That is exactly what K-drama star and singer Park Ji-hoon has in mind. While currently charming audiences as a clueless yet legendary military cook in his latest comedy series, the actor recently dropped a minor bombshell regarding his upcoming Park Ji-hoon military enlistment plans—and it involves trading his apron for the elite camouflage of the ROK Marine Corps.
During a recent interview for his hit TVING/tvN series The Legend of Kitchen Soldier, the 27-year-old star opened up about his looming mandatory service, proving that his real-life ambitions are far more hardcore than his fictional counterpart.
The Kitchen is a Danger Zone: Why He’s Dropping the Spatula
In The Legend of Kitchen Soldier, Park Ji-hoon plays Kang Seong-jae, a fresh-faced private who unexpectedly climbs the ranks to become a culinary icon at a remote military outpost. To prepare for the role, Park actually took professional cooking classes, hoping it might spark a new hobby since he confessed to being “really bad at it.”
However, the experience had the exact opposite effect. “Filming actually made me realize I really shouldn’t cook,” Park laughed, adding that the intense kitchen prep convinced him that being a military chef in real life was definitely not his calling. Instead, his gaze is fixed on a much more rugged path.
Going “All-In” for the Elite Marine Reconnaissance
Instead of a cozy post, Park is aiming for one of the toughest branches in the entire South Korean military: the Marine Corps, and specifically, the highly selective Marine Reconnaissance unit.
“I’ve had this dream since my 20s, and it hasn’t changed,” Park shared with unwavering resolve. Far from being intimidated by the notorious training, the former Wanna One member revealed a surprisingly adventurous streak. “I actually really like intense training and jumping from high places. Things like rappelling from a helicopter or going up in a plane for airborne training—I find them exciting.”
He made it clear that Park Ji-hoon military enlistment will happen next year, “no matter what,” as 2027 marks the final age-limit window for him to apply for the Marines.
No More Delays for the “Military Otaku”
While his sudden departure will undoubtedly break the hearts of thousands of fans worldwide, Park is keeping a cool head. Labeling himself a “military otaku” (an avid fan of military culture), he expressed that he sees the mandatory service not as a hurdle, but as a place where “there would be a lot to learn.”
He didn’t even seek advice from his former Wanna One bandmates who have already served, prefering to embrace the awkward, fresh-faced transition entirely on his own—just like his character Seong-jae, but with a lot more muscle.
Whether he makes it into the elite elite reconnaissance unit or serves as a regular Marine, one thing is certain: Park Ji-hoon is ready to exchange his “worldwide cute” image for some serious tactical gear. Fans have until 2027 to enjoy his onscreen projects before he officially reports for duty!
