MONSTA X’s I.M surprised by members’ secret return on enlistment day

The heartwarming bond between the members of MONSTA X was on full display as the group's youngest member, I.M, prepared for his military enlistment. On April 17, 2026, a video titled 'Im Chang Kyun’s Enlistment Day' was uploaded to his official YouTube channel, capturing the emotional and surprise-filled journey to the training center. In the video, I.M appeared with a short buzz cut, shyly commenting on his new look as he made his way to the Nonsan Training Center. "I'm on my way to the Nonsan Training Center," he shared. "I'm not confident in my face, so I won't show it much."

The highlight of the day was a surprise event orchestrated by the other members of MONSTA X. I.M had been under the impression that his fellow members could not see him off due to their scheduled performances in Japan. While eating his final meal before entering the camp, I.M expressed his disappointment, saying, "The older brothers are in Japan, so they couldn't come, but I'm thankful for the acquaintances who showed up. I'll have a meal with them before going in." However, mid-meal, the members suddenly appeared, leaving him in total disbelief. It was revealed that the members had secretly flown back to South Korea the day before and had even shared fake schedules in their group chat to maintain the ruse. "The group chat was silent for days because we were afraid of slipping up," the members joked. "The photos we posted in the group chat earlier were all fakes."

As the shock wore off—with I.M reacting with a stunned, "I really didn't know"—the members showered him with practical advice and warm encouragement, telling him to "eat plenty of food" and "listen well to the instructors." While I.M jokingly remarked, "I can't really taste the food because it's right before enlistment," his expression visibly brightened under the support of his team. As he walked toward the training center, the members shouted final messages of love, telling him to "walk slowly" and to "call us when you get your phone on the weekend." I.M enlisted for active-duty service on February 9, 2026, and is scheduled to be discharged on August 8, 2027.