In a recent audit by the National Defense Commission on the Korean Military Personnel Administration, the issue of fairness in the military service exemption system was once again raised, especially after the case of the global music group BTS was mentioned.
Accordingly, Mr. Sung Il Jong - Chairman of the National Defense Committee expressed concern about the inconsistency of current regulations. He said that BTS "could be completely exempted if the decree of implementation was amended", while criticizing the unreasonableness in the criteria for recognizing the exempted subject.
According to current law, "artists and sports personnel" - those who have made outstanding contributions to national prestige can perform replacement duties for 34 months if they win first prize at designated domestic art contests, or second prize at recognized international contests. However, world-class music awards such as Grammy, Billboard or American Music Awards are not on this list.
Mr. Sung pointed out that in the past 10 years, about 210 individuals have been exempted from thewance for winning "international" competitions, but most of them have been held in Korea. Of the 35 recognized contests, there are 11 domestic contests, and 5 of them are entirely for Korean citizens. If 91% of exempted people come from prestigious international events but are actually domestic, then where is the fairness? - Mr. Sung raised the issue.
A representative of the Military Human Resources Management Department Hong So-young admitted that there are " Concerns about fairness" and said that this agency will coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism to find a way to improve.
Mr. Sung emphasized that BTS is not only a cultural icon but also brings an estimated economic impact of 56 trillion won (about 39 billion USD). When those who contribute so much still have to join the army, while those who bring less benefits are exempted, it is difficult for the public to feel that this is a fair system, said Mr. Sung.
