Military manpower agency chief voices regret over Asian Games footballers' gloating about military exemption

The head of South Korea's military manpower agency expressed remorse on Monday regarding the attitude of South Korean footballers who celebrated their exemption from mandatory military service following their victory at the recent Asian Games. MMA Commissioner Hong So-young made this statement during a parliamentary audit, following the public reaction and calls for reform after some gold medalists boasted about their exemptions in interviews and on social media.

Hong deeply regretted this unfortunate situation, acknowledging the loss felt by young men serving their military duties and the public's demand for change. After securing the gold medal in men's football at the Asian Games on October 3, Yang Min-hyeok, a member of the national team, told the media that he played the match to obtain the exemption rather than to win a medal or trophy.

Park Seung-soo, another team member, posted a photo of himself wearing a cap usually worn by individuals who have completed their military service. Their actions have prompted widespread criticism and calls for a review of the policy.