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| ▲ This file photo shows the presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung. (Yonhap) |
SEOUL, Jan. 20 (Yonhap) -- Lee Jae-myung, the presidential candidate of the ruling Democratic Party (DP), said in terms of BTS’ military service exemptions on Jan. 20, “Although BTS has contributed to South Korea’s national interests, we should be cautious since it would be hard to limit the boundary when expanding in this way.”
When asked about BTS' military service exemptions after announcing a cultural art pledge at a complex cultural space in Insa-dong, Seoul, Lee said, "The compulsory military service is a duty set by the constitution, and exceptions should be determined carefully."
However, he mentioned, “From what I know, BTS did not even ask for exemptions in the first place so the fanclub 'ARMY' argued against the political community for interfering," adding, “The controversy over exemptions itself brings disgrace upon the group.”
Lee previously asked at a forum in December, 2021, "Among young South Koreans, who really would love to go into the military?” adding, “In perspective of fairness, I think it is more desirable to allow military service deferment and exemptions should be refrained from as much as possible."
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