South Korea’s recent announcement that e-sports athletes can earn a military exemption by winning gold at the Asian Games rekindled an old controversy involving K-pop titan BTS. In South Korea, any male who wins gold at the Asian Games is exempted from the usual 18-month mandatory military service. With e-sports now being included as a medal event, top-tier players—like team captain Lee Sang-hyeok (also known as “Faker”)—have a lot at stake.
Traditionally, these exemptions have been reserved for elite athletes and classical musicians, reflecting their role in promoting national prestige. However, they are also a point of contention. Official statistics show fewer than 100 “arts and sports” exemptions were passed last year.
To provide some context, Son Heung-min, a renowned footballer and Tottenham Hotspur striker, avoided the full military stint after the national football team secured a gold medal in the 2018 Asian Games. But he still had to undergo three weeks of military training. That’s standard even for those given the right to opt out of full service. “It was a good experience,” he told SpursTV. “The three weeks were tough, but I tried to enjoy it.”
Despite their colossal contribution to the country’s economy and K-pop’s global popularity, BTS weren’t considered for an exemption. Jin, SUGA, and j-hope have enlisted. HYBE, the company behind BTS, has begun hinting at the military enlistment plans for the members who have yet to enlist. In a statement shared by HYBE on September 25, a representative commented, “We will announce the enlistment plans for the remaining BTS members in sequential order within this year.”
Military exemption for successful South Korean gamers reignites debate | WION
The perceived injustice towards BTS
In a 2022 Gallup survey, approximately 33% of South Koreans opposed potential military exemptions for K-pop artists despite the intention to ensure uninterrupted progress for groups like BTS. With e-sports’ Asian Games appearance and South Korea’s dominance in this field, discussions around these exemptions are raging. National team coach Kim Jeong-gyun brushed away questions about it. He said “a sense of duty” of representing South Korea will be the players’ only motivation. But experts say military service exemptions are a “very important issue” for the young athletes.
E-sports was a demonstration sport at the 2018 Asian Games. That was the year South Korea’s League of Legends team lost to China in the final. Revenge is on the players’ minds, but they declined to say if avoiding military service is too. “Five years ago, we had to settle for a silver medal, but this time, we have strong players and many people support us,” Faker said. “I will work hard, believing we will win,” he added.
However, reactions, especially from BTS fans, were mixed. While some lamented the perceived injustice towards BTS, others appreciated the e-sports players’ dedication. They also emphasized that e-sports’ recognition as a sport predates BTS’ global fame. Some fans even alleged that if BTS were granted an exemption, they might not even accept it to avoid potential government “exploitation.”
The debate might simmer down after the Asian Games. But the questions it raises will remain pivotal for years to come. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: The debate began all over again due to the Asian Games. Source: Weverse.