BTS members are required to enlist in the army.
The Ministry of National Defense has finally released an official reply to the issue of special military service for BTS.
Min Hong Cheol, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, raised a question in regard to BTS’ military service to Minister Lee Jong Seop of the National Defense at the 4th plenary session held at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on September 20.
Rep. Min Hong Cheol asked, “The issue of BTS’s military service is not being decided through an opinion poll.” and added, “Can the decision for whether or not the group will service in the military really be made through a poll?”
In response, Minister Lee said, “To reiterate the position of the ministry of the National Defense, there is no change in the existing position that it is difficult to expand the alternative service system in terms of the fairness of the military service obligations on the BTS military service issue.”
Rep. Min said, “I think that the most important duty of military service among the four obligations under the Constitution should be implemented in accordance with laws and principles. I hope that the Minister’s stern will be upheld.”
Meanwhile, public surveys were conducted by various media outlets and the National Assembly Defense Committee to determine whether pop culture artists such as BTS, who contributed significantly to the promotion of national prestige, should be allowed to change to an alternative service in place of mandatory military service.
Among the 1018 individuals over the age of 18, 60.9% voted they agreed that alternative services should be allowed.
Why should they be exempt? What about all of the many other K-pop idols and K-drama actors who have willingly served. That would not be fair if BTS got an exemption and these other guys had to serve. It is their duty to serve their country. They should just go and there should be no discussion.
DONT U KNOW WHY?Clearly as the bright blue sky that you are CLUELESS about WHY there is a “DISCUSSION” about BTS enlistment. Either you are living in a cave or this is the very first time you use your social media and read about KNEWS. Please do some research instead off asking stupid questions coz you are sounding like a clown rn.
It doesn’t take much effort to find out what BTS has done for their country, as recognized by the Presidents of South Korea and the United States of America. International recognition and influence that has made an incredible impact to South Korea’s economy and tourism industry. So much so, that a government official pleaded for BTS not to take their “Hiatus,” fearing its negative impact to South Korea’s economy. Can you name any another K-Pop group or K-Drama actor who have produced the same results? Or even classical artists and athletes, who have already been granted military exemption? Why discriminate against Popular Culture artists? Because it has never happened before? Fact is that, to date, no other South Korean artist of any genre (group or individual) or Athlete comes close to the same positive impact for South Korea as BTS. They have been performing their civil duty for years. They deserve the same consideration.
BTS deserve military exemption… their musical influence around the globe boomed curiosity & interest in people to know & love Kpop more, appreciate Korean culture , food, music, merch, & travel . This influx of tourists in their country means economic boom….NO OTHER KOREAN GROUP has done this other than BTS!!! If their gov’t exempted their Olympians,athletes,other musicians who did NOT contribute to the economic growth of Korea…. Hey!!! There should be NO IFS & BUTS in making BTS free of their military obligations.