‘BTS Byeongyeokbeop’ Amendment Bill Passed in Plenary Session

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jin-young] A path has been opened for Hallyu stars such as the idol group BTS to postpone their military enlistment in order to continue their activities in popular culture and the arts.

On the 1st, the National Assembly held a plenary session and passed an amendment to the Military Service Act that allows outstanding individuals in the field of popular culture and arts to postpone their military conscription or mobilization if they are recognized for contributing to enhancing the nation's status and dignity. The scope and specific details of outstanding individuals eligible for postponement in the popular culture and arts field will be determined by presidential decree.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The amendment also includes legal grounds to allow active-duty soldiers and full-time reservists to subscribe to insurance to reduce medical expenses if they contract illnesses or sustain injuries during their service period while performing their duties.

Additionally, the amendment contains provisions allowing soldiers who require continuous inpatient treatment due to war injuries or accidents to extend their discharge deferment period in units of up to six months, enabling them to be discharged upon full recovery.

The amendment was passed with 253 votes in favor, 2 against, and 13 abstentions out of 268 members present. The 2 opposing votes came from the People Power Party.

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