Fans' desire for practical steps concerning army duty for K-pop stars has yet again become an important topic of debate in the context of another accomplishment accomplished by BTS, ranking 1st on Billboard's Hot 100 list.
The Korean government is moving forth to amend the military service law to include K-pop performers in the registry of those who may delay their army duty, as per MBC's Newsdesk. Those seeking post-secondary schooling, those undertaking a course at a training institution, and exemplary athletes raising national prestige are eligible for military service delay.
Moreover, the Korean government pushes anyone with three years of experience to apply for the postponement as a societal artist. Those who have earned a state award for their achievements can apply as well. (via Koreaboo)
And out of respect for those who may condemn the modification for offering preferential treatment to personalities, it is emphasized that their service will be deferred rather than fully exempted. If the legislation gets passed, K-Pop merit musicians will delay their military service to 30.
Most BTS members have enlisted in post-secondary courses that authorize them to delay their military duty until they are 28 years old. Still, Jin, BTS' most senior member, would be turning 28 this December already. With Jin's military service deadline rapidly approaching later this year, supporters are crossing their fingers in anticipation this law will be passed sooner than expected.
IS BTS DELAYING THEIR ARMY SERVICE?
South Korean law permits men to postpone their military service if they prepare for a postgraduate program, and detractors claim this may be the way BTS holds things off.
But as INQPOP! confirmed, A representative at Big Hit Entertainment refuted these allegations, saying, "The members' admissions to graduate university is not reflective of their military service, but rather they possess the willingness and the ability to learn, they all wished to go to school."