The Military Manpower Administration (MMA) is focusing on policies that enhance the fairness of military service obligations while reducing the burdens on young conscripts. This initiative aligns with the government's philosophy of being a "people-centered government" and emphasizes fairness and trust.
According to the MMA, starting this year, a facial recognition identification system has been implemented for military evaluations, strengthening the identity verification process for conscripts. Previously, identity was verified by visually comparing ID photos with individuals, but the new kiosk-based electronic facial recognition system allows for more accurate identification.
To increase accountability among those avoiding military service, the MMA has expanded the disclosure of personal information for draft dodgers. Currently, six personal details, including name, age, and address, are made public. From this year, the address disclosure will extend to include building numbers, and information about the countries of travel for those violating overseas travel permit requirements will also be released.
Improvements have been made to alleviate the inconveniences and economic burdens faced by young people during the enlistment preparation process. Starting this year, the interview process has been eliminated for most recruitment categories, except for certain specialties, and the Air Force enlistment method has shifted from a high-score competitive system to a random lottery selection, reducing excessive competition.
Additionally, the process for deferring enlistment dates due to reasons such as "planned university enrollment" or "waiting to depart abroad" has been automated, allowing applicants to receive immediate confirmation of their requests, which previously took an average of two days to process. This change is expected to reduce the waiting period for approximately 12,000 annual requests, enhancing the convenience for those fulfilling their military obligations.
The MMA is also strengthening health management for young conscripts. A mobile health examination result service has been introduced, allowing conscripts to check comprehensive health examination results via smartphone on the day of their military evaluations. This service will support approximately 440,000 conscripts each year in managing their health easily and conveniently.
Furthermore, the MMA is participating in the Ministry of Health and Welfare's "Third Basic Plan for Mental Health Welfare (2026-2030)" to identify mental health risks early during military evaluations and establish a support system for psychological counseling and treatment.
Starting this year, additional screenings for conditions such as depression have been added to the psychological evaluation during military assessments. Beginning in June, counseling vouchers will be provided to individuals requiring mental health treatment, with plans to support initial medical expenses in the future.
Hong So-young, head of the MMA, stated, "In line with the government's commitment to citizen sovereignty, we will continue to promote military administration that enhances fairness and public perception. We will do our utmost to support healthy military service for youth and to implement a military system that earns the trust of the public."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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