South Korean K-pop boy band BTS released a statement this Monday, October 17, through the official profile of the band's label, Big Hit Music, informing that they will be taking a break.
The cause of the pause will be for its members to enlist in the mandatory military service South Korea, homeland of the 7 members of the band. In the country, all able-bodied men must serve in the armed forces between 18 to 21 months.
Speculations had been circulating for years, in doubt whether they would receive an exemption regarding the mandatory service, since the age window is much longer than in Brazil.
They are each expected to serve in the armed forces for approximately two years. The oldest member of the band, Jin, is 29 years old and will be the first to perform later this month.
Look: geopolitics of koreas
Recruitment
É Mandatory recruitment in South Korea for males between the ages of 18 and 28. With regard to women, they are not obliged to provide the service, but can join the armed forces on a voluntary basis. Refusal to carry out military service in the country is considered a crime and can lead to imprisonment.
One of the reasons for this military duty is to maintain the country's ability to defend itself against an attack by the North Korea, if applicable, since technically still at war.
The enlistment follows the concept that "all citizens of a nation are responsible for the defense of their country". But there are exceptions.
Athletes, musicians and artists who win first places in international competitions are dismissed, since they are considered people of "greater national prestige".
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In August, Defense Minister Lee Jong-sup ordered an implementation by the authorities, for a survey to be carried out and to determine whether the band members should serve, because they actively contribute to the South Korean economy and also because of all the international prestige.
The current law also provides that artists who receive a medal from the government can postpone fulfilling the obligation until they are 30 years old. The BTS members fit this bill, as they received the Order of Cultural Merit in 2018.
BTS is expected to reunite as a group around the year 2025, as reported by BIGHIT Music.
See too: the two koreas
Military career in Brazil
Generally, entry into military service in Brazil is done through colleges and academies that train officers, and you can apply for training in these institutions, any Brazilian citizen who meets the requirements established by law and regulations of the Navy, Army and Aeronautics.
When joining the academy, students generally receive a stipend and, depending on the case, study in a boarding school, that is, they have the right to housing.
As the professional moves up the career ladder, wages increase and, upon retiring (going to the reserve), the income is paid in full.
Learn more about the military career!
Read too: Brazilian Army Day
By Erica Caetano
Journalist
*image credit
Shutterstock It is Silvia Elizabeth Pangaro
