Teddy Chen Enlists Following Military Evasion Allegations

Several high-profile figures in Taiwan have faced scrutiny recently for allegedly evading mandatory military service. Among them is Teddy Chen, a member of the boy group SpeXial, who has announced his decision to enlist following a public investigation into his military service evasion.

In Taiwan, men are required to serve in the military for a period of one year, starting at age 18, with the service requirement extending to individuals until their 36th birthday. As of December 2022, the government announced that the mandatory military service duration would increase from four months to one year, beginning in 2024. This change has intensified the focus on those accused of dodging their responsibilities.

Teddy Chen has been implicated in a controversy involving the falsification of medical records, a tactic allegedly used to avoid service. In October 2025, he claimed to be a victim of blackmail, asserting that he was manipulated into committing the crime without fully understanding the implications of his actions.

In the wake of these allegations, Chen shared an update on social media on November 20, 2023, revealing his shaved head and expressing his commitment to serving his country. He announced that he would be enlisting in alternative services due to health issues.

“I made you all worry during this time,” Chen wrote. “I’m sincerely thankful for the chance to fix the immature decisions in the past. I’ll get things done right, step by step, with a more grounded attitude. I’ll seriously sort myself out. Thank you once again for your tolerance.”

The repercussions of military evasion in Taiwan can be severe, with penalties reaching up to five years in prison. Chen’s decision to enlist signals a pivotal moment for him as he seeks to address the allegations against him and move forward with his life and career.

The scandal has also impacted the broader entertainment industry, as multiple members of boy bands have faced similar allegations. Recently, two members from another boy group were arrested for military service evasion, while another was involved in a cheating scandal. These developments have raised concerns about the integrity of the entertainment sector in Taiwan.

As the public watches closely, Chen’s enlistment may serve as a turning point not only for his personal journey but also for the evolving narrative surrounding military service in Taiwan’s entertainment landscape.