Members of the K-Pop band BTS will be able to perform while doing the ‘mili’

Can you combine the sparkling life of a young music star with the rigors of military service? In South Korea it may be, Defense Minister Lee Jong-Sup confirmed during a parliamentary session on Monday. Members of the boy band BTS, of great worldwide success within the K-Pop genre (korean teen pop), they could continue acting before their fans even during the fulfillment of the milli.

The debate on the shortening of military service for K-Pop stars, from two years to just three weeks, is a matter of national importance in the Asian country, aware of the importance of this industry for its economy and its image abroad. A group of Korean think tanks estimated in 2018 that BTS would generate an economic profit of 56 trillion won ($43 billion) between 2014 and 2023.

The problem is becoming apparent with the oldest member of the band, Jin, who will turn 30 in 2023. According to a revision of the Military Service Law, passed in 2019, K-Pop idols are allowed to postpone his service until 30. But for Jin, even so, the time of barracks is dangerously close. Complying with the militia would force these gangs to take a long break in their frenetic careers.

Military service is generally a highly controversial issue in South Korea, where all able-bodied men between the ages of 18 and 28 must perform military duty as part of efforts to defend against neighboring North Korea. led by Kim Jong-Un, with whom peace was never signed and who threatens to develop a nuclear arsenal. For the moment, even the people of the show business would have to take up arms to defend the country from a hypothetical aggression. The dictator also he has it sworn to the K-Pop genrewhich he censures for the danger he attributes to his cultural influence on the North Korean population.

Over the years, some professional categories have obtained exemptions, which allow service to be deferred or shortened, and which have included participants in Olympic Games or Asian Games medal winners, as well as classical musicians and dancers who win prizes in certain major competitions.

Parliament is now debating a bill that would shorten military service for K-Pop stars. Minister Lee Jong-Sup said that by allowing BTS to continue performing, the musicians could serve the national interest without affecting the group that is already running short of staff resources due to low birth rates. “Even if they join the military, there would be a way to give them a chance to practice and perform together if there are concerts scheduled overseas,” Lee said, “As many people highly value artists who serve in the military, that can help.” increase its popularity even more.

The seven member band announced a break in June from their joint activity alleging burnouts and the intention to carry out solo projects. In April, a spokesperson for Big Hit, the band’s promoter, said some members were having a “difficult time” due to uncertainties over the parliamentary debate, waiting for a firm decision.

Since their debut in 2013, BTS has become a worldwide sensation with their upbeat hits and social campaigns aimed at empowering youth. BTS became the first Asian band to win artist of the year at the American Music Awards last year, and were greeted by US President Joe Biden at the White House, where they discussed hate crimes against Asians.