Cha Eun-woo, ASTRO’s golden boy and one of K-pop’s most admired visuals, has managed to turn a military graduation ceremony — often a stern and serious occasion — into a moment of sheer warmth. And it wasn’t the crisp salute or the commander’s voice that captured everyone’s hearts this time. It was a single photograph: Cha Eun-woo in uniform, holding his beloved dog Dongdong.
The snapshot, taken right after his Basic Military Training Graduation at the Army Training Centre in Nonsan, exploded online. Fans who had expected pictures of Eun-woo in full military formality were instead greeted with this tender, almost cinematic moment between idol and pup. One fan wrote on X, “Really happy you got the chance to be with Dongdong,” while another added, “Aww they both look so happy and it’s making me smile too yay!”
Of course, Eun-woo’s graduation itself was impressive. Selected as an honour trainee, he served as company commander trainee, leading his platoon in a formal salute on stage.
Fans praised the singer and described his graduation scene as “straight out of a drama,” saying that how effortlessly he balanced authority with his signature poise.
Fans, however, were more drawn to the gentler picture of him holding Dongdong. For many, it acted as a link between Lee Dong-min, the young man, and Cha Eun-woo, the world famous star, reminding everyone that despite his stage presence and uniform, he still enjoys the simple comfort of his pet.
It’s a thread fans have followed for years. Eun-woo has shown glimpses of his personal side on programmes like Living Alone, and this moment felt like a continuation — the idol not just as a polished performer, but as a son, a friend, and a dog dad.
Cha Eun-woo will now serve in the Republic of Korea Army Band until his discharge in January 2027.
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