South Korea aims to prepare athlete military-service reform by next year

South Korea's Military Manpower Administration chief Hong So-young said on October 12 that the government intended to establish a reform plan for athletes' and artists' alternative service by next year, Yonhap reported.

During a parliamentary audit, she said proposals would raise eligibility standards and reduce the number of competitions qualifying athletes for special treatment. Hong said agreement had been reached with the culture ministry and the plan was undergoing final review.

Debate intensified after the men's football team won Asian Games gold on October 3. Some players' remarks about receiving exemptions drew criticism. Hong expressed regret and said she took calls for reform seriously.

Under the current system, eligible men generally serve 18 to 21 months in the military. Exceptional athletes and artists can instead fulfil their obligation through 34 months of alternative community service. The defence ministry previously said it was considering reducing or abolishing the special programme. Final new rules have not been announced.