"Gradual Reduction, Ultimate Abolition"... Differing Alternatives for Military Service Exemptions

[Anchor]

During the parliamentary audit of the Ministry of National Defense held yesterday (October 7), Defense Minister Kang Shin-chul stated that the ministry's goal regarding the recently controversial military service exemption system for arts and sports is "to gradually reduce and ultimately abolish it." Amid growing calls to reform the exemption system, various alternatives were proposed.

Reporter Choi Jae-yeong reports first.

[Reporter]

The heads of the Ministry of National Defense and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the relevant government ministries overseeing military exemptions, both agreed that the remarks and conduct of certain national athletes set to receive military benefits through this year's Asian Games were inappropriate.

[Kang Shin-chul / Defense Minister (Yesterday): "I found it deeply regrettable that the duty of national defense was disparaged."]

[Choi Hwi-young / Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Yesterday): "It was truly immature..."]

Lawmakers pointed out that the original purpose of introducing the exemption system—enhancing national prestige—has faded, and that the public sentiment regarding mandatory military service must be seriously considered.

[Cho Eun-hee / People Power Party Lawmaker (Yesterday): "Young men have their studies and careers interrupted for a year and a half. Yet professional athletes continue their careers with high salaries and even receive military exemption benefits. Is this really fair?..."]

However, there is also a subtle difference in stance between the Defense Ministry and the Culture Ministry regarding whether to "reduce" or "abolish" the system.

[Kang Shin-chul / Defense Minister (Yesterday): "The Defense Ministry's goal is to gradually reduce military service exemptions and ultimately abolish them."]

[Choi Hwi-young / Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism (Yesterday): "Naturally, we have no choice but to move toward reduction. But while reducing them, the question is how to complement the positive aspects..."]

Lawmakers offered a range of alternatives.

Some suggested selecting beneficiaries through a cumulative evaluation system, similar to earning mileage points,

[Cho Gye-won / Democratic Party of Korea Lawmaker (Yesterday): "So that military exemption benefits can also be granted based on points—the cumulative contributions that individuals have made..."]

while another proposed deferring enlistment until the late 30s instead of granting military exemptions.

[Chun Ha-ram / New Reform Party Lawmaker (Yesterday): "If exemptions are granted until the late 30s—that is, deferrals—most athletes and performers would be able to finish their careers, wouldn't they?"]

There was also an opinion calling for the complete elimination of the system.

[Lim Jong-deuk / People Power Party Lawmaker (Yesterday): "Abolish the military exemption system entirely. Scrap it all, and if there are necessary elements, handle them through a different system..."]

With as many as seven government ministries involved in the military exemption system and requiring complex coordination, it is expected to take considerable time before the government presents a final plan.

(Video by Kim Hyeon-sang | Video Editing by Nam Il)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.