[Military Story Part 2] Controversies and My Candid Thoughts on the Korean Military

South Korea is the world’s only divided nation, still technically at war, under a truce. It’s the land of BTS and thriving democracy, starkly contrasted with North Korea. This unique situation means every Korean man must fulfill his national defense duty by serving in the military. Consequently, the military issue is always a hot topic and a constant source of debate in Korean society.

Today, I’ll share my personal take on why celebrity military service always sparks such heated discussion, and what I believe are the fundamental problems with Korea’s military system.

1. Celebrity Military Service: Why So “Hot”?

Naturally, celebrities, like all Korean men, must serve in the military. However, in the late 2000s, there was a controversial “Celebrity Soldier” system. These soldiers worked among themselves and often received more vacation days than regular soldiers. As time went on, this led to serious questions of fairness. Eventually, scandals involving excessive leave and drinking allegations culminated in the dramatic abolishment of the Celebrity Soldier system.

Spending two golden years of one’s twenties in the military is a significant sacrifice for anyone. It’s why there have been numerous attempts by celebrities to avoid service. Recently, a popular idol, Mr. Ra, faced career-ending consequences after being caught attempting to evade his duty. Another famous idol rapper, Mr. Song, also stirred controversy during his social service, drawing heavy public criticism.

Due to these past scandals, simply fulfilling military service has become a mark of public approval for celebrities. While it’s a duty for all, the history of some in the entertainment industry trying to avoid it means that those who serve honorably now gain a positive public image. Even global superstars like BTS members have announced their plans to fulfill their duty, setting a powerful example. Particularly, cases like Taecyeon of 2PM, who is a U.S. citizen but chose to serve, earn immense public respect. I personally see this growing trend of celebrities proudly completing their service as a positive social phenomenon.

2. The Real Problem: Treatment and Accountability

In my opinion, the biggest issue in Korean society regarding the military has always been the treatment of soldiers. For two years, young men dedicate their youth to the nation, yet the compensation has historically been meager. When I served in 2017, a soldier’s monthly salary was only about 200,000 to 300,000 KRW (roughly $150-$230 USD). The “military service bonus point system” for government job applications was also abolished due to reverse discrimination claims.

While soldiers’ monthly wages have recently risen to over 1,000,000 KRW (over $750 USD), the fundamental problem persists: the state’s lack of accountability. When accidents occur or soldiers are injured, the nation often fails to take full responsibility.

There’s a famous Korean saying: “When needed, they’re the nation’s sons; when injured, they’re someone else’s sons.” It’s heartbreaking to see that even soldiers who suffered severe injuries, like losing an ankle to a landmine, haven’t received fair compensation compared to what might be offered in other developed countries. This is why I half-jokingly, half-seriously advise my younger friends: “If you can avoid it, don’t go.” You dedicate your youth to protect the country, but South Korea often turns a blind eye when its soldiers are harmed.

Conclusion: Duty Demands Responsibility

Living in a divided country, I understand and accept the necessity of military service. That’s why I, too, fulfilled my duty. However, I wish to see a nation that not only demands sacrifice from its soldiers but also takes full responsibility for them.

I don’t expect the same level of treatment as soldiers in volunteer armies like the U.S. But at the very least, if a soldier is injured while serving the nation, I believe the country should take full responsibility for their care and compensation.

If you enjoy read Military Story Part 1