South Korea may ask public to help decide whether BTS should bypass military service
- Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup asked officials to evaluate the need for such a survey, which, if commissioned, will be conducted by an external agency
- South Korea has previously exempted athletes, musicians and artists, who topped international competitions, from the 18-21 month mandatory service
The question of active military service for the band’s seven members has been a hot-button topic in South Korea as its oldest member, Jin, faces his enlistment in December when he turns 30.
Defence Minister Lee Jong-sup told lawmakers that he ordered officials to implement a survey quickly. He said his ministry will also look into various other factors like the BTS’s economic effect, the importance of military service and overall national interests.
After his comments created a stir, his ministry clarified in a statement that Lee ordered officials to examine whether such a survey is needed, rather than launch it immediately.
It said officials were asked to study details including which agency would be responsible for a survey, how long would it take and who exactly would be surveyed. The statement said if the survey is carried out, it will be done by a third organisation, not by the ministry or related authorities, to ensure fairness.
The ministry said the results would be only one of the many factors determining BTS members’ military exemption.
02:04
Can the BTS K-pop stars remain on stage and join the military? South Korean defence chiefs say yes
By law, all able-bodied men in South Korea must serve 18-21 months in the military under a conscription system established to deal with threats from rival North Korea. But the country gives exemption to athletes, musicians and artists who win top places in international competitions because they are considered to have enhanced national prestige.