[2020 National Assembly Audit] BTS to Become Eligible for Military Service Postponement

[Asia Economy Military Specialist Reporter Yang Nak-gyu]It appears that BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) will be able to defer their military service if they wish.

On the 13th, the Military Manpower Administration announced in its report for the National Defense Committee's National Assembly audit that it is "pursuing an amendment to the Military Service Act focusing on deferral of enlistment and conscription for outstanding individuals in the popular culture and arts fields," and that "a government legislative proposal will be submitted to the National Assembly within October."

The Military Manpower Administration is known to be preparing a government legislative proposal in favor of the amendment to the Military Service Act, which was originally proposed by Democratic Party lawmaker Jeon Yong-gi, and will submit it to the National Assembly.

The Military Manpower Administration explained, "We will prepare a government proposal to allow deferral for those recommended by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, but cancel deferral for those who have damaged their dignity," adding, "The purpose is to guarantee activities in popular culture and arts to enhance the national image."

According to the current Military Service Act, ▲ those who win third place or higher in the Olympics ▲ first place winners in the Asian Games ▲ second place or higher in international arts competitions ▲ first place winners in domestic arts competitions are incorporated as arts and sports personnel (supplementary service). The domestic and international competitions recognized for arts personnel incorporation are specified by the Military Manpower Administration's regulations.

Previously, lawmaker Jeon Yong-gi proposed an amendment to the Military Service Act last month to allow deferral of enlistment and conscription for outstanding individuals in the popular culture and arts fields who are recommended by the Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism for having elevated the nation's status and dignity.

If the amendment to the Military Service Act is finalized, the 'military service special exemption' will not be granted to BTS members, who were the first Korean singers to top the Billboard main singles chart, but deferral of enlistment and conscription is expected to be possible.

Among BTS members, the eldest Jin (real name Kim Seok-jin), born in 1992, is approaching the time for enlistment.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.