The controversy surrounding military exemptions for Asian Games gold medalists has escalated to a national assembly hearing.
During a National Assembly audit of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on October 7, lawmakers exchanged views on the military benefits for players on the South Korean teams competing in the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games. The debate was ignited by recent comments from some gold medalists who stated, "I won't go to the military," and shared photos wearing military caps.
Democratic Party lawmaker Jo Gye-won argued, "The military exemption system is a benefit for athletes who contribute to national prestige," adding that the actions of players who mocked the military have sparked public outrage.
People Power Party lawmaker Jo Eun-hee stated, "Winning a gold medal is not a ticket for professional athletes to resolve their military obligations," emphasizing that the issue lies within the system, not the athletes' efforts.
Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Choi Hwi-young remarked, "We have no choice but to move toward reducing military exemptions," and noted that discussions regarding morale in the arts and sports sectors will be thoroughly examined.
The issue of military exemptions was not limited to the National Assembly audit of the Ministry of Culture.
Defense Minister Kang Shin-cheol expressed regret during a Defense Ministry audit regarding the controversy involving some players from the men's soccer team at the Asian Games, stating, "It is unfortunate to belittle the sacred duty of national defense," and reaffirmed the goal of gradually reducing and ultimately abolishing military exemptions.
Meanwhile, some players embroiled in the controversy have taken steps to address the situation. Park Seung-soo, a member of the men's soccer team, issued an apology, stating, "I never intended to mock those fulfilling their national defense duties or to take their efforts lightly." Player Yang Min-hyeok also apologized, saying, "Regardless of my intentions, I regret that my comments made the significance of the gold medal seem trivial."
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.