In South Korea, a gold medal at the Asian Games can bring more than just national pride. It can also lead to an exemption from the country’s mandatory military service of 18-21 months, which all able-bodied males must complete by the age of 28. This policy has been in place to honor and incentivize elite athletes and classical musicians who significantly promote national prestige.
eSports at the Asian Games
At the 2022 Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China, eSports made its historic debut as a medal event. Competitors from across Asia gathered to compete in popular video games such as:
- League of Legends
- Dota 2
- Honor of Kings
- PUBG Mobile
- Dream Three Kingdoms 2
- Street Fighter V
- FIFA Online 4
eSports, having a massive following globally, witnessed significant attention during this event, especially considering the stakes involved for South Korean players. A gold medal would not only represent regional dominance but could also lead to military service exemption.
BTS Fans Raise Eyebrows
The global sensation, South Korean boy band BTS, recently made headlines when its members announced their decision to complete their military service, despite their massive contributions to the country’s economy and the immense global popularity of K-Pop. This decision was met with varying reactions, especially since renowned soccer star Son Heung-min was granted an exemption in 2018.
The announcement of potential military exemptions for eSports athletes reignited this debate, drawing attention from millions of BTS fans globally. On social media platforms, fans voiced their concerns:
- “Does eSports boost/spread their culture more than music, the arts, and global relations?”
- “I wonder how much money eSports contributes to their economy versus BTS and other artists?”
- “I don’t see how this is fair.”
The crux of the discussion lies in determining how the South Korean government measures national prestige and who should be considered for exemption.
Key Players Affected by the Exemption
The exemption has significant implications for renowned eSports players. Most notably, Lee ‘Faker’ Sang-hyeok, arguably the best League of Legends player of all time, is approaching the age cut-off for military service. An exemption could provide a pivotal turning point in his career.
Public Sentiment and The Ongoing Debate
A 2022 Gallup survey indicated that about 33% of South Koreans opposed potential military exemptions for K-Pop artists. This statistic illuminates the complex nature of the issue and the intricate balance between cultural contribution, economic impact, and national service.
As the eSports competitions unfold at the Asian Games, with South Korea’s notable performance in the League of Legends tournament, the debate intensifies. Some argue in favor of the dedication and hard work of eSports athletes, highlighting that the recognition of eSports as a legitimate sport preceded BTS’s global prominence.
A Historical Perspective
South Korea’s exemption policy has its roots in the nation’s desire to recognize and reward extraordinary achievements in fields that traditionally brought international glory, such as sports and classical music. This system was designed to elevate the country’s reputation on global platforms and celebrate the successes of its citizens who excelled at international levels. Over the decades, as South Korea’s cultural, technological, and economic landscapes evolved, the definition of what constitutes “national prestige” has been continuously challenged.
Diverse Domains of Excellence
From the technological revolution led by brands like Samsung to the cultural wave powered by K-Pop and Korean cinema, South Korea’s contributions to the global stage have diversified. BTS, with its unparalleled global influence in the music industry, and eSports athletes, who dominate international gaming arenas, represent newer domains of excellence. These areas, previously uncharted in the context of military exemptions, now raise valid questions regarding equity, fairness, and representation.
Concluding Remarks
While the immediate focus might shift after the Asian Games, the larger questions surrounding national service, cultural value, and the evolving nature of “prestige” will remain in the South Korean sociopolitical discourse for years.
The dialogue around exemptions isn’t merely a matter of sport or entertainment but delves deeper into the heart of South Korean values, traditions, and future aspirations, shaping the nation’s identity and policy-making in unprecedented ways.