BTS Military Service Special Act Far From Resolution... "Political Consensus Not Easy, No Immediate Expectations..."

by Na Juseok

Published 24 Apr.2022 08:45(KST)

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] Discussions about amending the Military Service Act concerning the military service issue surrounding South Korea's representative group BTS (Bangtan Sonyeondan) are circulating both inside and outside the political sphere. Although the policy chief of the ruling party in the next government mentioned the possibility of legal amendments to allow special military service exemptions for BTS, citing national prestige, actual legislative changes are expected to be difficult.

Summarizing the political discussions on the 24th, the debate over resolving BTS's military service issue through amendments to the Military Service Act is not straightforward. Earlier, Lee Jong-seop, the nominee for the next Minister of National Defense, who is about to face a confirmation hearing, stated in a written response submitted to the National Assembly regarding public demands to include popular culture artists within the scope of alternative military service, "We must consider the fairness of fulfilling military obligations and the reduction of military resources," adding, "Especially at a time when special military service exemptions are being reduced, expanding the scope of exemptions requires careful review."

This issue surfaced after President-elect Yoon Suk-yeol took office, when Sung Il-jong, the policy chief of the ruling People Power Party, appeared on MBC Radio’s ‘Kim Jong-bae’s Focus’ on the 12th and was asked, "Is it possible for a bill to pass that includes popular culture artists within the scope of alternative service personnel such as arts and sports personnel?" He replied, "There have been discussions between the two party floor leaders to review this quickly." Sung also introduced that "the government has expressed a desire to have this processed as soon as possible," hinting at the possibility of prompt handling.

Later, Sung told this outlet in a phone interview regarding this issue, "The government proposal needs to come first," and "Since the government requested it, we will review it once the request arrives." This reflects a more cautious stance. When asked if the government refers to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, he confirmed, "Yes." Since the government’s position has not yet been presented, discussions at the National Assembly level have not proceeded.

Regarding the same party, Rep. Ha Tae-kyung of the People Power Party expressed opposition on MBC Radio on the 18th to granting special military service exemptions for reasons such as national prestige. Ha said, "Due to fairness issues, it is not appropriate to consider it based on criteria like national prestige."

He explained, "There are differences of opinion even among our party (People Power Party) members," adding, "The bill would have to pass the legislative subcommittee, but it won’t be easy." Regarding granting BTS special military service benefits, Ha noted, "The current Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism is proactive," but "The position of the new Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism will be very important." He also commented on the atmosphere within the National Defense Committee, saying, "Since there is a shortage of troops, members of the Military Service Special System Improvement Subcommittee at that time also held the view that the system should be reduced in the long term," and concluded, "It will be difficult for this to pass before the inauguration ceremony."

The situation is similar within the Democratic Party. Even regarding the issue of expanding the scope to include popular culture artists, there are reportedly differing opinions among party members. Moreover, even among those who agree with granting special military service exemptions to BTS and others, there are differing views on the legal procedures that should be followed.

For example, some lawmakers, including Policy Chief Sung, are pushing for amendments to include popular culture artists as eligible for special military service exemptions. On the other hand, Democratic Party lawmaker Ahn Min-seok proposed including individuals who have received medals designated by presidential decree as eligible for special military service to address fairness issues. However, while some lawmakers support such measures, they are not widely endorsed by the majority.