Kim Young Dae is turning heads with his latest military appearance, as new photos and videos from the 2026 Gyeryong Military Culture Festival have given fans a closer look at the actor in uniform. His noticeably shorter haircut and clean military look have sparked plenty of praise online.

The actor appeared at the festival between October 1 and 5 in Gyeryong, South Chungcheong Province. His latest appearance has also revived comparisons to actor Kang Dong Won, a resemblance Kim Young Dae has been associated with since the early years of his career.

Kim Young Dae's Short Haircut Gets Fans Talking

Kim Young Dae's latest look is noticeably different from the hairstyles audiences became familiar with through his dramas. His military buzz cut and uniform have created a more understated appearance, with fans focusing on his natural features rather than elaborate styling.

Photos and videos from the festival quickly circulated online, with many fans praising the new look. Several comments highlighted how well the short haircut suited him, while others said his military appearance made him look even more striking. The actor was also seen appearing on stage during the event, giving fans another glimpse of his activities while completing mandatory military service.

Kim Young Dae Revives Kang Dong Won Lookalike Comparisons

The renewed attention has also brought back comparisons between Kim Young Dae and Kang Dong Won. Since the beginning of his acting career, Kim has frequently been described as a lookalike because of their similar facial features, height and overall appearance.

Kim previously acknowledged hearing the comparison and said he felt grateful whenever people mentioned it. At the same time, he explained that he did not want to focus too much on looking like another actor because he wanted to show more of his own identity through his performances. His latest military appearance has once again placed that resemblance in the spotlight, with fans drawing fresh comparisons after seeing his shorter haircut and uniformed look.

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Kim Young Dae Serves With Army Military Band

Kim Young Dae enlisted in the South Korean Army on April 20, 2026, as an active-duty soldier. After completing his basic training, he auditioned for the military band and was selected in late June. He is currently serving with the military band of the 12th Infantry Division.

His appearance at the Gyeryong festival was therefore part of his ongoing military activities rather than a conventional public entertainment schedule. The festival also featured several other entertainers currently serving in the military, creating an unusual gathering of familiar faces from the Korean entertainment industry.

Kim Young Dae's Acting Career Before Military Service

Kim Young Dae made his acting debut in 2017 and gradually gained wider recognition through projects including Extraordinary You and The Penthouse series. He later took on leading roles in dramas such as Sh**ting Stars, No Gain No Love, To The Moon and Dear X.

His military enlistment came after a particularly active period in his acting career. Before beginning service, the actor had expressed his hope of returning after his military duties to take on ambitious roles and continue developing as a performer. His expected discharge is around October 2027. Until then, appearances such as the Gyeryong festival are giving fans occasional glimpses of Kim Young Dae during his military chapter.

Final Take

Kim Young Dae's appearance at the 2026 Gyeryong Military Culture Festival has sparked fresh attention thanks to his short military haircut, uniformed look and renewed resemblance to Kang Dong Won. Currently serving with the 12th Infantry Division's military band, the actor is expected to remain away from regular drama activities until his military service ends around October 2027.

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