MONSTA X Celebrates 10th Anniversary with New Album and Hyungwon’s Military Discharge
Get ready, MONBEBE! MONSTA X is hitting a major milestone this year, celebrating their 10th anniversary with a brand new digital album, "NOW PROJECT vol.1." But that's not all – member Hyungwon has officially been discharged from military service, marking a joyous occasion for fans eagerly awaiting the group's complete return.
Hyungwon completed his service on May 13, serving at the Capital Mechanized Infantry Division. He even earned an early promotion to corporal thanks to his exemplary service! In a heartfelt message to fans, Hyungwon expressed his gratitude and excitement for the future: "MONBEBE, I missed you. Thanks to MONBEBE who waited for me, I was able to finish my service in good health. Let’s see each other for a long time going forward, MONBEBE."
Hyungwon is the fifth MONSTA X member to be discharged, following Shownu, Minhyuk, Joohoney, and Kihyun. Showing the group's increasing activity as a whole, this event adds to the excitement surrounding their upcoming projects.
Speaking of projects, "NOW PROJECT vol.1" is set to drop on May 14th, perfectly timed with their 10th anniversary. The album isn't just a collection of new tunes, though. It features re-recorded versions of their most iconic title tracks and B-sides from 2021-2023. This is a particularly special gift for fans, as these songs have now been recorded with all six members, filling in gaps left by previous military enlistments.
The album title itself holds significance. "NOW" represents the present while also being "MON" spelled backward. Starship Entertainment said, “This album is the first chapter in which the band rewrites its time together on stage, in music and with fans to ‘present tense.’” It signifies the group's identity and where they stand today, ready to create new memories with their dedicated fanbase.
From Hyungwon's return to this celebratory album, MONSTA X is poised to dominate the second half of 2025. What are you most excited to see from MONSTA X in their next chapter? Let us know in the comments below!