Source: Hankyung
The issue of military service is drawing attention once again after BTS tops U.S Billboard Chart.
Many are arguing that the government should give military exemption benefits to BTS for their contributions in drastically raising Korea's cultural status.
After BTS topped the Billboard Singles Charts, a bill to revise the military service law was proposed by Rep. Jeon Yong-ki of the main opposition Minjoo Party of Korea on the 3rd. The bill allows pop culture artists (idols) to postpone or delay military service.
Jeon stated, "The postponement of military service is a completely different matter from exemptions and special cases. We should also give options to delay enlistment for those in their early 20s entering the job market."
Recently, Big Hit announced that "BTS' Jin will likely delay his mandatory enlistment under Military Service Act until end of 2021." According to Big Hit, "those who are completing a masters degree that's more than 2 years are allowed under the law to delay military service until the end of the year after they turn 29." Jin and other BTS members (excluding youngest member Jungkook) are attending graduate school at Hanyang University.
According to the bill, it's expected that BTS will be able to delay enlistment and continue their music activities as usual. However, it's uncertain whether the revision will become reality as it requires consultation with Ministry of National Defense (Military Manpower Administration).
Until now BTS members have stated consistently that they plan to do their natural duty and enlist in military service.
In the meantime, the issue of BTS' enlistment is drawing attention as it coincides with Big Hit's entry into the KOSPI market.
