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South Korea is increasingly leaning towards implementing mandatory military service for women, according to a recent survey. Nearly 60% of South Koreans support the idea, marking a significant shift from the long-standing taboo against conscripting women into the nation's armed forces. While thousands of women already serve in the military on a voluntary basis, the debate over mandatory service has gained momentum due to factors such as a declining birth rate, shrinking number of recruits, and the belief that social equality necessitates equal participation in defense duties.

The survey, conducted by the Reform Institute, found that 59% of respondents supported the change, while 34% were against it. Among men, 65% were in favor, with 71.7% of men aged 20 to 30 supporting the idea, and 54.5% of women across all ages expressing support. Currently, all eligible men must complete 18 to 21 months of service, with the option to be recalled in times of emergency.

Despite the support for mandatory service for women, some argue that women should be kept away from the front lines and that South Korea should focus more on advanced technologies like drones and cyber capabilities. South Korea's conscription system is closely tied to traditional gender roles, with men expected to protect the country and women primarily responsible for childbirth, childcare, and household duties.

Professor Hyobin Lee from Sogang University in Seoul noted that men typically serve during their early 20s, which can disrupt their education, employment, or career development.

The debate over gender equality and women's expanding opportunities in education and employment also plays a role in the shift towards mandatory service for women. Younger men are questioning why military service, one of the country's most significant civic obligations, should remain exclusively for men. Additionally, modernizing the military to rely more on technology, including unmanned systems and cyber capabilities, lessens the requirement for physical strength.

However, some argue against mandatory service for women, citing concerns about the additional burden on women's lives, especially considering their traditional responsibilities, such as pregnancy, childbirth, and childcare. Professor Song Young-Chae, a human rights activist, argues that women in South Korea already bear a disproportionate share of these responsibilities, and forcing them to serve in the military could further strain their careers and family life.

He believes the nation should invest more in modern technologies rather than conscripting women into combat roles.