Ankara:The government has announced a reevaluation of the military service exemption policy for athletes and artists following public backlash over recent incidents involving South Korean gold medalists at the Asian Games.

According to Anadolu Agency, Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Chae Hwi-young stated that the ministry plans to consult with the sports and arts communities, as well as the Ministry of National Defense and the Military Manpower Administration, to address public concerns about the fairness of the exemption system.

The controversy arose after some members of the under-23 national men's football team were criticized for their reactions to receiving military service exemptions. This backlash was sparked by national team member Yang Min-hyeok's admission that he was more focused on securing an exemption than winning a medal, as well as teammate Park Seung-soo posting a photo wearing a cap associated with military service completion.

In South Korea, all able-bodied men are required to serve 18 to 21 months in the military. However, artists and athletes who achieve top awards at specified competitions, like Olympic medals or Asian Games gold, can qualify for exemptions.

Minister Chae acknowledged that while the exemption system has historically supported the development of talented athletes and artists, public views on military service and fairness have evolved over time. The Defense Ministry is considering revising or eliminating the exemption system, emphasizing fairness and the decreasing pool of eligible individuals for military service.