K-pop idol Taemin changes military service role due to worsening mental health

Taemin, 28, who enlisted on May 31, 2021, is the only member of the quartet who has yet to complete the military service, which lasts up to 21 months. Photo: Handout

South Korean boy band Shinee's Taemin, who is currently serving his mandatory military service, has been transferred from the military band to serve as a public service worker due to his worsening depression and anxiety.

A statement from his management agency, SM Entertainment, on Jan 14 said: "Due to the symptoms of depression and anxiety that Taemin has been suffering from before (his enlistment), he continued to receive treatment and therapy even while carrying out his service.