Mandatory military service is a significant responsibility in South Korea, governed by strict rules to ensure fairness and discipline. Social service agents, a category of supplementary service personnel, are expected to adhere to specific standards. Any violation can result in severe consequences, including criminal charges and re-enlistment.
Penalties for Absence from Service
The Military Manpower Administration has clear guidelines for handling absences among social service agents. If a social worker fails to attend service for more than eight days without a valid reason, they can face legal action. This includes a possible prison sentence of up to three years under the Military Service Act.
Absence from service is defined as failing to perform duties without authorization, differing from approved absences like sick leave or vacation. For absences totaling less than seven days, the missed days are treated as overtime, with five times the number of absent days added to their service period.
Suspension and Resumption of Service
If a social worker is arrested or receives a sentence other than probation, their service is suspended. However, this suspension doesn’t erase the obligation. Once the sentence is served, suspended, or exempted, the remaining service period must be completed.
In cases where charges are dropped, not prosecuted, or the individual is found not guilty, the suspension period is credited as service time. This ensures no unfair penalty is imposed for unfounded allegations.
Transfer to Wartime Labor Service
Social service agents who face imprisonment or confinement may be transferred to wartime labor service. This alternative involves performing military support duties during wartime. The decision is made through a review process under the Ministry of National Defense.
No Re-enlistment for Active Duty
Re-enlistment as an active-duty soldier is not an option for those who have completed their mandatory service. However, supplementary personnel, including professional researchers and industrial workers, can be called to active duty if they fail to fulfill their obligations. For instance, unauthorized absences exceeding eight days can lead to cancellation of their enlistment status, forcing them to join active duty or resume as social service personnel.
Notable Cases
Several high-profile figures have faced scrutiny over their military service. Singer Psy, known globally for his hit song Gangnam Style, was re-enlisted after failing to meet his duties as an industrial worker. Similarly, Chun Myung-hoon also faced re-enlistment for the same reason.
Most recently, Dispatch reported allegations against Song Mino, a member of the group Winner. He is accused of neglecting his duties as a social worker. According to the report, Song took an overseas trip in October and hasn’t been seen at work since. However, the facility clarified that his absence was due to authorized sick leave and annual leave. YG Entertainment, his agency, stated that the leave was for ongoing treatment and was used according to regulations.
Kavita Mishra is a dynamic writer and passionate Korean entertainment enthusiast, combining her love for K-pop and K-drama with a flair for storytelling. With a keen eye for the latest trends, Kavita crafts articles that capture the pulse of K-pop idols, chart-topping hits, and the most buzz-worthy dramas taking over screens worldwide.
