WOODZ finishes military service with gratitude for fans and promises to repay their love in full during Q&A session
WOODZ, also known as Cho Seung-youn, recently completed his military service after serving his 18-month term as a member of the Army Band at the Korea Military Academy. He enlisted as an active-duty soldier in January of the previous year. His agency, EDAM Entertainment, quoted him as expressing his disbelief that his service was already over, describing it as a surreal experience, and conveying his genuine happiness.
During his time in the military, WOODZ experienced an unexpected surge in popularity. His 2023 release, Drowning, initially went unnoticed but gained traction when he performed it in uniform on Immortal Songs for Korea’s Armed Forces Day in October. The viral performance propelled the track to the top of streaming platforms and music shows. WOODZ expressed his joy at the song’s success and his commitment to working hard to meet the expectations of his supporters.
WOODZ is now fully back to work and has a series of performances lined up. He is scheduled to perform at Summer Sonic 2025 in Japan next month, followed by appearances at Let’s Rock Festival and Sound Planet Festival. Additionally, he hinted at an upcoming album, mentioning his plans to delve further into the rock genre and create music that reflects his personal voice and themes.
In a post-discharge Q&A session, WOODZ shared his feelings about completing his military service. He expressed his initial nervousness upon enlisting but was surprised by how quickly the 18 months passed. He described his time in the military as unforgettable, emphasizing personal growth and reflection on his future musical direction in a more tranquil environment.
When asked about being chosen as a “special warrior,” WOODZ highlighted a recruitment event at Sejong University as a memorable moment. He mentioned the significance of meeting fans again after being in the military and engaging in conversations about music with fellow musicians, which he believes has influenced his songwriting by adding detail and expressiveness.
Reflecting on the success of Drowning during his military service, WOODZ acknowledged the impact it had on him, particularly when fellow soldiers and officers recognized him. He expressed gratitude for the support and motivation he received, emphasizing his desire to continue creating meaningful music and living up to the special moments he has experienced.
Looking ahead, WOODZ expressed his focus on music-related activities, such as planning albums and concerts. He teased about his next album, promising more rock music while also exploring different genres to convey his emotions and stories effectively. He reassured fans of his dedication to creating powerful and genuine music that resonates with them.
In a heartfelt message to his fans, WOODZ expressed his gratitude for their unwavering support and the impact it has had on him during challenging times. He pledged to remain humble and strive to be an artist that fans can be proud to support. He recognized the importance of fan support in his career and vowed to demonstrate his appreciation step by step.