On October 5, lawmakers from both major parties in South Korea agreed that the military exemption system for athletes, particularly in the arts and sports sectors, needs to be reformed in light of recent controversies surrounding the national soccer team's military service exemptions.
Kim Byeong-joo, a member of the ruling Democratic Party and the National Defense Committee's floor leader, stated on Facebook, "It is time to overhaul the military exemption system that has been in place for 53 years." He emphasized that both parties have long recognized the need to gradually reduce military exemptions and called for the discussions to lead to tangible reforms.
Shin Hyun-young, a spokesperson for the Democratic Party, spoke to reporters after a press conference, noting that while the party has not yet established an official position, it is essential to consider whether it is fair for athletes to receive military exemptions when other public figures, like BTS, fulfill their military duties. She stressed the need for discussions centered around the Culture and Sports Committee to ensure the system's intent is upheld.
The opposition People Power Party also raised concerns about the necessity of reforming the system. Park Seong-hoon, the party's chief spokesperson, remarked that the controversy should not be dismissed as mere verbal missteps by a few athletes. He urged a reevaluation of whether the current system aligns with societal norms and expectations.
He further suggested that the criteria for military exemptions should be redesigned based on the competitive level and international standing of each sport, and if the system is to remain, the corresponding service and public responsibilities should be strengthened.
Additionally, Yoo Yong-won, a member of the National Defense Committee from the People Power Party, stated on BBS Radio that the direction should be toward reducing or abolishing military exemptions. He noted that there was a growing consensus on the need to address this issue during the recent National Assembly audit.
The controversy began after the South Korean soccer team's victory over Japan in the final match on October 3, where team captain Lee Gi-hyeok stated, "I’m not going to the military," and teammate Yang Min-hyeok added, "Medals or trophies weren't important. I played for the military exemption, and that was my only focus," which sparked widespread debate.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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