Billboard titlist, South Korean boy band, BTS has been considered for conscription by the military as a mandated norm. This has come as a shock for the band’s fans, also known as army. The seven member band comprising RM, Jungkook, J-Hope, Jin, V, Jimin and Suga have recently been in the news regarding their deployment in the armed forces. This has one of the most discussed issues in the country after Jin, the eldest member of the band, who recently turned 30 in December last year becomes eligible to get listed for the forces.
As stated under the South Korean law, all physically stable men must undergo a military service for the period of at least 18-20 months. However exceptions have been made for a special chunk of population including athletes, artists, musicians, ballet dancers and other who hold accolades of national importance and prestige.
On Friday, according to the reports published by AP, Lee Ki Sik, Commissioner, Military Manpower Administration said that it is desirable for the band members to uphold the mandated military duties and maintain justness in the armed forces. The Defense Minister, Lee Jong-sup also expressed his views on the topic of the hour. At a committee meeting in the Parliament Culture Minister, Park Bo Gyoon said that his designated ministry will soon mention their stance on the issue.
Even though amendments in the conscription law have been initiated and put forth in the Assembly, the voting is yet to be done by the lawmakers regarding the exemption of BTS members to serve in the army.
In August, this year, minister Lee Jong-sup mentioned the fact that if BTS members join the armed forces, they will be granted provision to practice and collaborate with other former BTS members in their world tours. Ones those who receives exemption from the draft will be released from the military academy after three week of practice and training. Under which they will be asked to initiate 544 hours of volunteering and serve professionally for around 34 months.
