The South Korean lawmakers changed a rule to allow internationally recognized K-pop musicians to postpone their mandatory military service until they turn 30. This proposal was specifically designed to allow exceptions for K-pop celebrities who contribute to the economy and promote South Korean culture. On this bill, BTS, one of the most well-known K-pop groups in the world, was a major attraction.
All able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 in South Korea are required to serve in the military. Article 39 of South Korea’s constitution, which went into force in July 1948, states that ‘all persons shall have the responsibility of national defense within the limits as stated by Act.’
The Military Service Act of 1949, which went into force in 1957, requires men in South Korea to serve in the military when they become 19 years old.
At the age of eighteen, one might enlist for military service within the country. According to the Military Service Act, ‘a person under a responsibility to serve in the armed services enters the military unit through conscription, call-up, or application.’ Women are not obligated to serve in the military in South Korea, but they may do so if they like.
Military service in South Korea lasts roughly 18 months, making it one of the world’s longest; however, the length of service varies depending on the branch of the military. The military divides individuals who serve as active duty members from those who work as non-active duty employees.
The South Korean Army and Marine Corps have active service members who serve for one year and six months in the Army and Marine Corps, respectively. They serve in the Navy for one year and eight months and the Air Force for one year and nine months. Non-active duty personnel serves as ‘public service workers’ in various government ministries for one year and nine months.
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