The Korean Defense Committee tentatively passes a law allowing prominent K-Pop stars to postpone their military service until the age of thirty.
The Parliamentary Defense Committee on Friday (November 20) approved a draft law amending the Military Service Act that allows prominent Hallyu stars to delay performing their mandatory military services.
The committee gave its approval to the draft law amending the Military Service Act that grants Hallyu stars who are known to have contributed to raising the country's reputation abroad, such as members of BTS, an exceptional right to postpone the performance of their mandatory military service.
Last September, the parliamentarian for the ruling Democratic Party, John Young-Ki, proposed this bill with the aim of paving the way for popular culture artists who have honored the nation - such as members of the Bangtan Division - to postpone their mandatory military services.
Initial approval does not mean that the law has been formally enforced, but rather it still needs approval by the Korean parliament in the plenary session.
Representative John, one of the Korean lawmakers, said:
"BTS members will be able to postpone their enlistment until the age of 30 if this bill is passed in the plenary session and the law enforcement decree is also revised."
The law currently in effect regarding mandatory military service in South Korea requires all Korean men between the ages of 18 and 28 to perform their military duty for two years unless they are physically incapable of doing so.
Internet user comments:
(+931, -266) I'm not a fan of BTS but don't they deserve an exemption for all their accomplishments? They have spread more Korean culture around the world than any gold medal winner. Allowing them to enlist at the age of 30 just seems like a selfish decision from this nation
(+730, -73) I'm a man but they did a lot to spread the culture of this country and improve our image. They deserve something for that, right? Especially when there are others who are exploiting their wealth to evade service.
(+655, -187) Just exempt them from being drafted. They have provided a lot to our country
(+412, -52) With all the wealthy families using their influence and money to get their kids out of service, then what would happen if BTS didn't recruit when they did so much to this country?
(+257, -22] They don't have much left until they turn 30 ... That just sounds like a hurried decision. They had to set the cap until the age of 35. Even at age 30 their career would still be at its peak
(+204, -10] I think it's a good idea. Offer people some time to postpone their recruitment if they have things that need to be taken care of
(+314, -162) Just pardon them
(+131, -18) Whether it's now or later, they'll eventually recruit ... it's okay if they do it later...
what do you think about this desicion?
