As a permanent resident card holder in the United States, Taecyeon had the choice not to perform military service in the Republic of Korea. However, he decided to enlist, even giving up his permanent residency in the United States with the sole intention of returning the love he received from Korean fans.

In fact, Taecyeon was diagnosed with a herniated disc in a physical examination of the Military Manpower Administration and had the choice to enlist as a social service worker. Nevertheless, Taecyeon chose to enlist as an active-duty soldier after receiving rehabilitation. He eventually recovered his health enough to enlist as an active-duty soldier and enlisted in the White Horse Unit in September 2017. He even became an Assist Drill Instructor at the recruit training center.

With exemplary performance during his military life, he was chosen to wear the Warrior Platform to demonstrate the 'Future Combat Performance System of the Armed Forces' at the 2018 Armed Forces Day Commemoration Ceremony. Taecyeon also received the nickname of 'Captain Korea,' receiving much admiration from Korean fans.

On October 11, Taecyeon updated fans through social media and was seen in his uniform once again. With the photo, he included the hashtags "Captain Korea" and "First reserve training." Taecyeon is receiving applause for attending his first training as a reserve soldier.

Meanwhile, Taecyeon is appearing in the tvN drama 'Blind' as Ryu Sung Joon.