I.M of MONSTA X will sit out the group's overseas activities and upcoming world tour.
Recently, the group's agency Starship Entertainment said via the fan platform BERRYZ, "I.M is preparing the procedures to fulfill his mandatory military service." The agency added, "As previously announced, he has continued rehab treatment for his back pain on doctors' advice and is currently carrying out activities within what's medically possible."
The agency continued, "Please note that I.M will not participate in MONSTA X's upcoming overseas schedules or the '2026 MONSTA X WORLD TOUR [THE X: NEXUS].'"
They closed with, "We ask for fans' understanding," and promised, "We will continue to support I.M so he can prioritize his health and complete his military duty smoothly."
Meanwhile, MONSTA X proved their global pull at the Asia Artist Awards 2025 (AAA 2025) on Dec. 6 at Kaohsiung National Stadium in Taiwan, taking home Best Artist and the History of K-pop award. The members are currently deep in preparations for the 2026 world tour.