BTS is a K-pop group, which means that they are not exempted from completing their mandatory military service. Olympians, gold medalist athletes, and award-winning classical musicians are among the few individuals who are eligible for such exclusion because of their outstanding cultural contributions. Fans then pointed out that RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook work as cultural ambassadors and it should be taken into account.
ARMYs have been urging to push a bill for the exemption of the BTS members in their mandatory military service. In South Korea, all able male citizens between the ages of 18 and 28 are required to enlist. The conscription has existed since 1957 and is still being implied until today.
Recently, the Military Manpower Administration has expressed their approval of a bill that will allow pop-cultural artists, such as BTS, to defer their service until the age of 30. While it is still not official, people are already taking sides regarding the matter.
Now, regular Korean men, some of whom have already served in the military, are sharing their honest opinion about the possible postponement of BTS’ enlistment. In a recent episode of “Street Debate,” Asian Boss interviewed several male citizens, who shared their thoughts regarding the controversial topic.
One man, who already completed his enlistment, shared that he feels that exempting BTS is unfair. He went on to say that it will make him regret the time he lost by serving in the military, while others were allowed to be spared.
“If I properly fulfilled my duty in the military, but some people don’t have to, I think I’d be sad about my lost time. Actually, rather than sad, I’d probably feel frustrated. And I’d feel like it’s unfair,” he said.
BTS is the pride of South Korea. RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook have achieved the worldwide success that they are considered a huge inspiration in their country.
Jin, who is the oldest member of BTS and the first one to enlist from the group, previously said that he is ready to serve his country. Exempted or not, the boys have already prepared themselves for their mandatory duty.
It is worth noting that even the most popular stars in the country are not exempted from the rule. In fact, a lot of actors and idols were at the peak of their careers when they had to temporarily leave the entertainment scene to complete their compulsory duty.
