Seventeen’s main dancer Hoshi has been diagnosed with a complete ACL tear while undergoing mandatory South Korean military training. The injury will sideline him for months, affecting both his solo activities and the group’s upcoming schedule.

  • Hoshi suffered a full ACL tear during basic training
  • Surgery and a 9‑12 month rehab are required
  • Seventeen’s tour and album plans face major delays

Like all able‑bodied South Korean men, Seventeen’s lead dancer Hoshi (Kwon Soonyoung) was obligated to serve. In the middle of his 2024 training period, a sudden pivot caused doctors to confirm a complete rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

Medical reports label the injury as a “full‑grade tear,” meaning the ligament is entirely severed. Immediate reconstructive surgery has been scheduled, and specialists estimate a minimum of nine to twelve months of intensive rehabilitation before a full return to performance.

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Since debuting in 2015, Hoshi has become one of Seventeen’s most recognizable performers, known for his intricate choreography and charismatic stage presence. His absence will ripple through the group’s planned Asian tour, pre‑recorded variety shows, and a potentially delayed album release.

While injuries during military service are not unheard of in the K‑pop world, an ACL rupture is especially serious for a dancer whose career depends on lower‑body strength and agility. Past cases have sparked debate about the physical demands placed on idols during compulsory service.

Historical Background: In 2018, idol Bobby suffered a similar ACL injury while training, prompting agencies to tighten medical monitoring during basic training. Despite those measures, Hoshi’s case highlights lingering gaps in preventive care for high‑impact performers.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the prolonged loss of a key member can not only dent a group’s revenue streams but also erode international fan confidence. This incident may push agencies to reconsider alternative service options or enhanced safety protocols for idols.

Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Lee Jung‑Hyun notes, “A complete ACL tear typically requires over a year of rehab for elite dancers to regain peak performance.”
Did You Know?: Although ACL injuries occur in less than 0.3% of South Korean conscripts, the rate is noticeably higher among K‑pop idols due to the physical intensity of their pre‑service routines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: When can Hoshi realistically return to the stage?
Answer: Based on current medical protocols, a minimum 9‑12 month rehabilitation period is expected, making a 2025 comeback plausible.

Question 2: How will Seventeen’s upcoming album be affected?
Answer: The agency has not issued an official statement yet, but dance‑heavy tracks may be re‑arranged or delayed to accommodate Hoshi’s recovery.