The story of BTS's military service exemption seems to end as the Ministry of Defense has released its latest comments on the matter. Although the result is not what many people expect, perhaps BTS and we both have prepared in advance!
Below is the specific statement of the Secretary of Defense on this:
At the first plenary meeting of the National Assembly Defense Committee on the 1st, the ruling and opposition parties had different opinions on the performance of special military service for pop artists like BTS. This story has been going on for many years as the members gradually reached the age of enlistment.
Some members of the Committee believe that pop artists in general or BTS, in particular, should be equally entitled to a special exemption from military service. People's Power Commissioner Seong Il-jong argued that it should be considered based on whether BTS can help expand the nation's wealth.
He also pointed out that BTS brought an economic effect of 1.7 trillion won to Korea. Therefore, many people advocate prioritizing BTS to enjoy special military service exceptions to increase national economic value.
However, Minister Lee said, "The enlistment will help the popularity" of BTS. This is understood to mean that exemption from military service is practically impossible.
He even added, "I think there's a way to give BTS a chance to practice, but if there's a concert overseas, they can perform together." It can be understood that the ministry will let BTS perform as best they can without affecting their national obligations while the group will not receive special exemptions.
Minister Lee Jong Sup also stated that "After consideration, the ministry of national defense has concluded the department can help them practice and perform for the national gains without violating the principles of fairness and equality."
But this statement of the minister made many people feel dissatisfied. This means that while BTS enlists in the army and fulfills the duties of an ordinary citizen, they still have to practice and perform to benefit the nation. Some can say it is pride or resposibility but some consider that BTS needs to be able to live like an ordinary citizen while they perform their duty like a normal person.
Many people think that it is too much for BTS. But it seems like it's easy to see BTS doing their military service without any special features!
