South Korea Considers Ending Military Exemption for Athletes

South Korea is considering ending the military exemption for athletes who win medals at the Olympics or Asian Games, following recent controversies involving medalists from the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya.

The current policy exempts male athletes who win gold medals at the Asian Games or any medal at the Olympics from mandatory military service, which typically ranges from 18 months to two years for physically fit males under 28. Instead, these athletes undergo three weeks of basic military training and complete 544 hours of community service related to their specialty over 34 months.

The review comes after several high-profile incidents involving South Korean athletes who won medals at the 2026 Asian Games, held from September 19 to October 4. Controversial statements and actions by these athletes have sparked public debate and embarrassment for the military service.

South Korean football team captain Lee Ji-hyeok, who won a gold medal at the 2026 Asian Games, stated publicly that he would not serve in the military. Additionally, a video of Park Seung-soo, a youth team player for Newcastle United, wearing a military-style cap and performing a mock salute, further fueled the controversy.

In response, Minister of Sports Chai Hoe-young stated during a parliamentary session that there is a broad consensus on the need for a more just and stringent system. He indicated that relevant government agencies will work together to develop comprehensive measures, though no specific details were provided.

Minister of Defense Kang Shin-chul also expressed the goal of gradually reducing and eventually eliminating the exemption. These statements came despite apologies from the involved athletes, who addressed the media to clarify their remarks.