South Korean government considering phased reduction or abolition of the military service exemption system for athletes..

South Korea TV station KBS reported on Wednesday, citing a statement by Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Chae Hwi-young, that the government is considering a phased reduction or abolition of the military service exemption system for athletes.

According to the report, Chae made this announcement while attending a national committee meeting for the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism that day.

He said, after the Associated Press (AP) exposed highly controversial remarks made recently by some national team players, the government realized that the values and original intent behind the system had shifted for some individuals. Consequently, the government "inevitably must consider a phased reduction or abolition of the system."

Chae said, "Admittedly, the system has played a role in helping outstanding artists and athletes maintain and develop their talents. However, public emphasis on fairness and perceptions regarding military service have changed. I agree that the system should undergo a comprehensive review."

Chae's decision to revise the system stems from comments made online by South Korea U21s national team winger Yang Min-hyeok and his teammates.

After South Korea defeated hosts Japan to win the men's football gold medal at the 2026 Nagoya Asian Games, Yang stated in an interview that the "real reward" for the victory, more so than the gold medal itself, was the exemption from military service.

Captain Lee Gi-hyuk even openly shouted, "I don't have to serve in the military!" during an interview.

Newcastle United youngster Park Seung-soo, also posted on social media to boast about winning the gold medal with the team while reiterating his delight at being exempted from military service.

Unsurprisingly, the words and actions of these South Korean players drew immediate public backlash; journalists harshly criticized them, stating that "the opportunity for military service exemption should not take precedence over the sense of duty to bring glory to the nation."

Yang Min-hyeok, Lee Ki-hyuk, and Park Seung-soo have since apologized for their behaviour, but the public remains unconvinced. 

South Korea has implemented a policy of military service exemptions for athletes since 1973. Under the regulations, all physically fit males are required to serve in the military for 18 to 21 months before the age of 28.

However, the government grants exemptions to Asian Games gold medalists and all Olympic medalists. These athletes are only required to complete a few weeks of basic training and a certain period of community service.

Image source: Internet / KBS