Seventeen’s Vernon releases farewell single ahead of military enlistment

Vernon of Seventeen will release his new digital single “I’ll Be Back” at 6 p.m. Thursday, the same day he begins his mandatory military service.

Vernon entered a military training center earlier in the day to begin basic military training before serving as a public service worker. Born to a Korean father and an American mother, Vernon holds dual South Korean and US citizenship but chose to fulfill his military obligation in Korea.

“I’ll Be Back” is an electronic pop song featuring sentimental melodies and lyrics conveying a heartfelt message to fans awaiting his return from military service. Vernon also participated in writing and composing the song.

The track was first unveiled during “V8 Live,” the concert of Seventeen’s subunit V8 comprising members The8 and Vernon, held on July 11 and 12.

The single adds to Vernon’s growing catalog of solo work, including “Black Eye,” his solo track “Shining Star” from Seventeen’s fifth LP “Happy Burstday,” and “Mia” from V8’s debut EP.

Beyond his own music, Vernon has also been involved in songwriting and production, co-leading the creation of the V8 album with fellow member The8 while collaborating with several domestic and international artists, including Charli XCX, Pharrell Williams and Tiger JK.

His creative contributions have earned industry recognition in recent years. In 2024, Vernon became a full member of the Korea Music Copyright Association, before later joining the Recording Academy as a voting member for the Grammy Awards.

Vernon’s enlistment comes as Seventeen continues to navigate a period of staggered military service among its members.

Wonwoo is currently serving as a public service worker, while Hoshi and Woozi are fulfilling active-duty military service. Dokyeom and Mingyu are scheduled to enlist in September, while Seungkwan and Dino will enlist together in the military band on October 26. Jeonghan became the group’s first member to complete military service after being discharged in June.

Despite the ongoing enlistments, Seventeen has continued both group and individual activities. V8 recently performed at a party co-hosted by Seoul Community Radio and British artist FKA twigs. Dino is set to hold a three-day solo concert in Seoul from Aug. 21 to 23, while Jeonghan and Joshua are reportedly preparing to debut as a unit in October.