The Korea Music Content Association (KMCA) reacted to the passing of the new law that allows a possible postponement of the mandatory military enlistment for artists and performers who are named "Merit Awardees in the Field of Popular Culture and Arts."
In an official statement released on Thursday, Dec. 24, the Korea Music Content Association suggested that BTS members Jin, V, Jimin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, and Jungkook are the only personalities who can benefit from the so-called "BTS Military Act."
While the union commends the country's efforts in giving recognition to all South Korean artists and athletes who brought pride and honor to the country, they pointed out that there are only a few individuals who can qualify for the law's criteria and requirements.
It added that the law would be pointless since no K-Pop stars in the present generation can cut, adding that even the second-generation BTS cannot take advantage of it in the future. The Korea Music Content Association then suggested that revisions are needed since the union thinks that the law has gone astray from its primary goal and intention.
Should the Ministry of National Defense of South Korea push through and make no amendments to the law, it means that only those who have achieved the topmost level of star status can avail of its perks. As of 2020, the K-Pop artists who can make use of the "BTS Military Law" are Yang Hee Eun, Nam Jin, Tae Jin Ah, Cho Yong Pil, Psy, Lee Soo Man, and BTS members.
It is important to note that 67.7 years old is the average age of South Korean personalities who received the Presidential Order of Cultural Merit in the last decade. Celebrities promoted for at least 15 years in the K-Pop industry could get a special citation. However, it is doubtful for any Hallyu star to be promoted in the entertainment industry for 15 years by turning 28 years old, which is the recommended age to get enlisted.
Aside from that, the law would also mean that future generations of K-Pop acts would need to surpass all the feats and milestones achieved by BTS to get the Presidential Order of Cultural Merit. The Ministry of National Defense of South Korea has yet to comment on Korea Music Content Association's statement. Even Big Hit Entertainment and BTS members are yet to give their thoughts about the matter.
Meanwhile, previous reports suggested that BTS members Jin and Jungkook may delay their mandatory military enlistment already since the bill would be effective by next year. Before the passing of the "BTS Military Act," only high-profile personalities in the fields of sports and classical music are permitted to be exempted or have their mandatory military enlistment delayed.
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It remains to be seen, however, if Jin and Jungkook would ask for a deferment, especially since BTS continues to enjoy worldwide popularity up to this writing. In fact, BTS members Jin, V, Jimin, J-Hope, Suga, RM, and Jungkook are all aiming for their third Grammy nomination already.
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Written by Nica V.
