How NCT’s TaeYong Surprised Fans With The ‘501’ Music Video

For many male K-Pop idols, their careers must be put on hold as they carry out their mandatory military service. In the past, fans wouldn’t hear from them until they completed their service. But now idols are able to plan ahead and release various forms of content while they momentarily step away from the spotlight.

NCT’s TaeYong is one idol who has gifted fans with something special even while in the military. He released a surprise music video for the track ‘501’. While still waiting for his discharge, this track helps hold fans over until he’s officially able to return as an artist. Upon its release, many fans flooded social media with excitement about the song.

TaeYong’s Artistry On Full Display

As a soloist, TaeYong’s discography has been a showcase of his artistic versatility. From ‘Long Flight’, which highlights his soothing vocals, to the more hip hop-influenced ‘SHALALA’ and ‘TAP’ which display his impeccable rap skills. Then there’s the charming love song ‘Love Theory’ that can warm even the coldest of hearts.

Having taken part in writing and composing ‘501’, TaeYong hits the ground running once again. With the music video, his effortless charisma and swagger shines through the screen, leaving many fans breathless and in awe. His artistry is on full display as he delivers powerful rap verses and striking visuals all throughout the music video.

TaeYong exemplifies an artist who’s not afraid to branch out, refusing to box himself into just one, single concept. TaeYong’s ‘501’ music video is a testament to his strengths and another great addition to his exemplary discography.

Updates From The Military

Prior to beginning his mandatory military service, TaeYong planned ahead and released monthly digital calendars through NCT’s official social media accounts. Each one was accompanied by special photographs that capture the essence of the season. His recent digital calendar upload exudes fall vibes, welcoming the spirit of autumn.

The star has also uploaded several posts on his personal Instagram, showing fans that he’s doing just fine. From photos of his everyday life to gym pictures and some healing time on holiday vacations, TaeYong has continued to stay connected even while he’s away from the spotlight. In a post earlier this year, he even revealed that he spent some time with fellow NCT member JaeHyun, who is also carrying out his mandatory military service.

Despite not being able to see him on stage, TaeYong’s consistent updates have helped fill in the gap fans have felt since his enlistment.

Discharge Date

TaeYong enlisted on April 15, 2024, as an active duty soldier in the South Korean navy, becoming the first NCT member to begin his mandatory military service. He is projected to be discharged on December 14, 2025.

With that in mind, there’s just a few more months left until his return. But before that date comes, fans will have to rewatch ‘501’ and keep his songs on loop for their daily dose of TaeYong.

Dropping ‘501’ a few months before his discharge date could be a taste of what’s to come. In one of his updates while in the military, the star shared a picture of himself in the recording studio. It shows that he’s still hard at work, creating several tracks that could be considered for his post-enlistment project.

‘501’ has undoubtedly made fans happy and raised their expectations for the future of their favorite artist, NCT’s TaeYong. And perhaps before December, TaeYong will drop yet another update, raising the hype even further for his return.