Speaking at a dialogue with young scientists at the presidential office, Lee acknowledged that mandatory service creates unavoidable career gaps for young men and has become a source of social friction.
"Male youths inevitably experience a significant interruption in their lives while fulfilling their national duty," Lee said, adding that the government is considering broader alternative service programs and structural reform of the armed forces.
He suggested expanding research-oriented service tracks and establishing research units within the military, as warfare increasingly shifts toward advanced weapons systems and artificial intelligence.
"Armed force should be focused on expertise rather than sheer numbers," he said.
"Instead of being thought as youth wasted, the conscription period should be utilized for an opportunity to learn advanced defense systems and high tech," he said, adding "here's a thought, why not create R&D units within the military?"
The selective nature of these exemptions has fueled long-running controversy, particularly in the cultural sector. The debate intensified around BTS, whose members enlisted despite topping global charts and generating significant economic value. Supporters had called for exemptions, while critics warned against preferential treatment for K-pop stars.
A 2018 legal revision, often dubbed the "BTS Law," allowed top artists to defer enlistment until age 30 but did not grant full exemption.
Public sensitivity over military service has also been shaped by the case of Yoo Seung-jun, who was banned from entering Korea after obtaining U.S. citizenship in 2002 to avoid enlistment.
Alternative service, introduced following a 2018 ruling by the Constitutional Court of Korea, allows conscientious objectors to serve in public institutions instead of military units. Before the ruling, most objectors were imprisoned.
However, the system remains controversial because alternative service personnel must serve for 36 months — twice as long as active duty — to deter abuse. Critics argue the lengthy term is excessive and discourages legitimate applicants.
Lee's remarks come as South Korea faces declining birth rates and rising demand for high-tech military capabilities, prompting renewed debate over whether the manpower-centered conscription system remains sustainable.
The government has said any reform will seek to balance national security needs with fairness and constitutional rights.
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