MONSTA X’s I.M Delivers Martial Law Announcement Live on Air with His Poised Yet Emotional Response

MONSTA X’s I.M (real name Lim Chang-kyun) faced an unprecedented moment during his live radio broadcast on December 3, announcing breaking news about President Yoon Suk-yeol’s declaration of martial law.

While hosting KBS Cool FM’s 'Kiss the Radio,' I.M interrupted the usual flow of his show to deliver the urgent news, stating, “Breaking news: President Yoon Suk-yeol has declared martial law earlier today.”

His visibly tense expression and composed delivery captured the gravity of the moment, leaving fans both shocked and impressed by his professionalism under pressure. As the weight of the announcement settled in, I.M’s reaction resonated deeply with listeners. Known for his calm professionalism, I.M handled the unexpected moment with dignity, even as fans noted the emotional toll the news must have taken on him.

The situation held particular resonance for I.M, a proud native of Gwangju—a city synonymous with South Korea’s pro-democracy struggles during the 1980 Gwangju Uprising. Fans online were quick to draw connections between his hometown’s history and the announcement he had to deliver, amplifying the emotional stakes for the idol.

Adding to the tension, MONSTA X currently has three members—Kihyun, Hyungwon, and Joohoney—serving in the military, with concerns rising over reports that active-duty soldiers’ discharge dates might be delayed under martial law.

Many fans expressed sympathy for I.M’s difficult position, with some noting how visibly affected he appeared in the minutes following the announcement. Others praised his ability to remain composed despite the weight of the news.

President Yoon declared martial law at 10:26 p.m. on December 3 during an emergency national address. The National Assembly moved quickly to pass a resolution lifting the declaration within two and a half hours. By 4:30 a.m. on December 4, a cabinet meeting officially ended the martial law state, concluding the crisis after six hours of intense uncertainty.