On January 9 KST, the cast and crew of the new MBC romance drama 'Motel California', including Na In Woo, Lee Se Young, Choi Min Soo, attended a press conference in light of the drama's upcoming premiere.

Notably, the press conference marked actor Na In Woo's first public appearance following the news of his full exemption from mandatory military service. Previously, Na In Woo received the designation of reservist status after undergoing his mandatory service physical examination. As a result, the actor was due to complete his mandatory service as a public service worker. However, the actor did not receive a summons from the Military Manpower Administration for 3 years after receiving his reservist status designation, resulting in his full exemption. In 2024, approximately 10,000 individuals received the same exemption as Na In Woo due to lack of available public service positions.

The issue of "fair and equal treatment" of celebrities and famous figures when it comes to South Korea's mandatory military service remains a highly sensitive topic. When asked about his exemption during the 'Motel California' press conference, Na In Woo began with an apology, stating, "First and foremost, I would like to apologize to my drama team for talking about a personal topic at this press event." He then continued, "If I may share, the news broke while I was in the middle of filming. I received a call after the filming ended, late at night when my mind was still elsewhere. Because it is a very sensitive topic, I had to make a decision, fast. In the end, I chose silence. I felt that many people loved the bright and positive side of me, and so I did not wish to show them a weaker side. I think I may have tried to act brighter because of that."

Finally, Na In Woo added, "I do not wish to reveal the name of my illness. It is a private matter. But I spoke as honestly as I could in the hopes that people will see the situation as it is." 

Meanwhile, Na In Woo's 'Motel California' premieres later this week on January 10 at 9:50 PM KST. 

SEE ALSO: Na In Woo exempted from Military Service after awaiting Public Service call-up