South Korean actor and singer Kim Hyun-joong reportedly delayed his mandatory military service until next year due to his schedule, a local news outlet reported Thursday.

Kim was notified that he should enlist in the army on Oct. 7, but postponed due to his concert tour schedule, according to the reports.


Kim is currently touring five countries -- Thailand, China, Peru, Mexico and Japan. Kim, who just wrapped up a show on Aug. 24 in Thailand, is to travel to China on Aug. 30 for another concert.

In South Korea, which remains technically at war with the North, all able-bodied men are required to serve for about two years in the military to defend their country against North Korea.

The Korean heartthrob is no exception to the law.

But his hectic concert schedule does not seem to be the only reason he has put off joining the army in October.

Kim is also to be called by the police for questioning regarding alleged assault charges later this week or next week.

He was recently mired in controversy after his girlfriend filed charges against him on Aug. 22 for beating her multiple times.

The woman was allegedly assaulted between late May and mid-July while arguing over “women issues” at Kim’s home. Kim’s attacks left her with bruises in May and broken ribs in July, requiring six weeks of medical treatment.

By Ock Hyun-ju (laeticia.ock@heraldcorp.com)