Key Highlights:
- South Korea captain Lee Gi-hyuk issued a public apology after celebrating his exemption from mandatory military service following an Asian Games gold medal victory.
- Lee held up his gold medal after defeating Japan 1-0 in the final and stated that he was “not going to the military”.
- Under South Korean regulations, athletes who secure gold at the Asian Games or any medal at the Olympics are exempt from standard 18-to-21-month conscription, completing only short basic training instead.
South Korea Football Captain Apologises Over Conscription Remarks
South Korea captain Lee Gi-hyuk has expressed public remorse after gloating about securing an exemption from his country’s mandatory military service in the aftermath of their Asian Games triumph. The 26-year-old midfielder, who plays for Gangwon FC in South Korea’s K League, led his squad to a 1-0 victory over tournament hosts Japan in the final to claim the gold medal. However, his post-match celebrations drew immediate scrutiny when he held up his gold medal and triumphantly announced he was “not going to the military”.
Facing backlash over his post-match reaction, the player addressed the public through a statement shared on social media. In a social media post reported by local media, the overage Under-23 squad member said he was “deeply sorry to the fans who are currently fulfilling their military duty, as well as to all those who sincerely supported us”.
Reflecting on Inappropriate Celebrations
Acknowledging the sensitivity surrounding compulsory enlistment in the country, Lee conceded that his remarks were ill-considered. “As an adult I should have thought carefully before speaking,” added Lee, expressing contrition over how his words were perceived by citizens serving in the armed forces. “I deeply regret having spoken so carelessly, and I will continue to reflect on my actions.”
The Gangwon FC player reiterated his regret toward both followers of the national team and the broader public engaged in active duty, concluding: “I sincerely apologise to all the fans who have supported us wholeheartedly and who are doing their utmost to fulfil their military duty.”
Why This Matters
Mandatory military service is a deeply sensitive national issue in South Korea, where most able-bodied men are legally obligated to complete between 18 and 21 months of active duty before turning 28. To incentivize elite sports performance, the South Korean government grants special exemptions to athletes who earn gold medals at the Asian Games or any medal at the Olympic Games. Those who achieve this distinction are spared the standard enlistment timeline and are instead required to complete basic military training lasting under a month.
This path of relief from standard conscription has previously benefited major sporting figures. Former Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min secured an exemption after winning gold at the 2018 Asian Games, fulfilling only three weeks of military service in 2020. Similarly, golfer Tom Kim also avoided standard military service through an Asian Games gold medal victory. Because standard military duty interrupts athletic careers during peak competitive years, exemptions are highly sought after by players, though public gloating over avoiding duty remains a cultural taboo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Lee Gi-hyuk say after the Asian Games final?
Following South Korea’s 1-0 win against Japan, Lee held up his tournament gold medal and stated that he was “not going to the military”, prompting criticism from the public.
How does military exemption work for South Korean athletes?
While South Korean males are typically required to complete 18 to 21 months of active service before age 28, athletes can earn an exemption from standard duty by winning an Asian Games gold medal or an Olympic medal of any colour. Qualifying athletes must still complete basic military training, which takes less than a month.
Which other athletes have received South Korean military exemptions?
Notable athletes who have secured the military exemption through gold medal performances at the Asian Games include professional golfer Tom Kim and footballer Son Heung-min, the latter of whom fulfilled his required three weeks of basic training in 2020.
