"PX is Good" Army Trainee SNS Photos... Military Security Controversy

Wearing Military Uniform and Earphones 'Selfie
Purchase Details Exposed on PX Receipt, Administrator's Personal Information Left Visible
Unit Officials Say "We Will Strengthen Management and Supervision"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Bang Je-il] At the Army Training Center, the use of mobile phones by trainees is fundamentally prohibited. Nevertheless, recently, a trainee took a 'recent status photo' and posted it on his social networking service (SNS), sparking public controversy. In particular, the receipt shown in the photo posted on SNS included personal information of personnel within the unit, drawing criticism for the lax security within the military.

On the 13th, according to the Facebook community 'Delivering on behalf of the Army Training Center (Yukdaejeon),' a recent photo posted on Instagram by a trainee currently enlisted at the Army Training Center, commonly known as the 'Nonsan Training Center,' was shared. The photo included a 'selfie' wearing military exercise clothes and earphones, as well as details of a purchase made at the PX (military base mart) on the 11th.

The informant expressed concern that the PX receipt shared in the photo not only showed purchases such as coffee and snacks but also exposed personal information including the manager's name and phone number.

Yukdaejeon pointed out, "It seems that the phone security checks for trainees at the Nonsan Training Center are not being properly conducted," adding, "In the military, where security is paramount, it appears that a trainee in their second week, who has not even reached the rank of Private, is using a camera without understanding the importance of security."

Currently, soldiers in military units are granted limited mobile phone usage rights, excluding trainees. Mobile phones can be used on weekdays after work from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., and on weekends from 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. This measure has been officially enforced since July 2020.

The post by Yukdaejeon reporting this news also included the unit's position. The unit explained, "We fundamentally control the use of mobile phones by trainees. However, we allow mobile phone use for about 30 minutes after work hours to check internet letters received from family, etc."

They also stated, "The unit will educate and strengthen management and supervision so that trainees can use mobile phones appropriately while complying with security regulations."

Meanwhile, netizens' opinions on this incident are divided. While some comments defend the trainees, saying, "Many people confuse security issues with soldiers' human rights," others criticized with comments like, "If you allow convenience, you must follow the rules," and "They really have no sense."

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