[2020 National Audit] Minister Park Yang-woo Calls for "Progressive Review" of Military Service Exemptions for Popular Artists Including BTS

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Park Yang-woo is responding at the National Assembly's Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee's audit of affiliated institutions including the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism on the 7th. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Heung-soon] Park Yang-woo, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, expressed the need for military service exemptions for popular artists, including BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan).

At the National Assembly Culture, Sports and Tourism Committee’s audit held on the 7th, Park responded to a question from Jeon Yong-gi of the Democratic Party of Korea asking, "What do you think about the postponement and exemption of military service for popular culture artists?" by saying, "It needs to be reviewed positively."

He added, "There are many opinions that popular culture artists, in addition to pure artists and athletes, should also receive exemptions. I hope they receive favorable treatment regarding military service."

Recently, political circles, including No Woong-rae, Supreme Council Member of the Democratic Party of Korea, have argued that BTS, who topped the Billboard charts, should be granted military service exemptions.

Minister Park emphasized, "However, discussions must be held not only with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism but also with related agencies such as the Ministry of National Defense and the Military Manpower Administration," adding, "Public sentiment must also be taken into consideration."

Regarding the amendment to the Military Service Act proposed by Representative Jeon, which would open the way for military service postponement for popular culture artists who have enhanced national prestige, he said, "I hope the National Assembly discusses this well," and added, "I think it should be passed promptly."

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