South Korea captain apologises for exemption gloating
South Korea captain Lee Gi-huk, 26, apologises after gloating about avoiding military service following an Asian Games final win over Japan.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- South Korea captain Lee Gi-huk apologised for gloating over avoiding military service.
- His team defeated hosts Japan 1-0 to secure the Asian Games gold medal.
- South Korean men must serve 18 to 21 months in the military before turning 28.
South Korea captain Lee Gi-huk has issued a formal apology after facing severe backlash for publicly boasting about dodging the mandatory military service following his team's triumph at the Asian Games.
During the tournament final, the South Korean side secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory against hosts Japan. Following the match, the 26-year-old player proudly displayed his gold medal and triumphantly declared to media outlets that he was exempt from serving in the armed forces.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Under South Korean regulations, able-bodied males are legally obligated to complete between 18 and 21 months of active military duty before reaching the age of 28, unless they qualify for special governmental exemptions.
The South Korean government grants military service exemptions to Asian Games gold medalists and Olympic medalists of any tier to honor their athletic achievements. However, openly celebrating this privilege can trigger public backlash in a society where military conscription is viewed as a solemn civic duty.
Several notable athletes have previously benefited from this exemption policy, including former Tottenham Hotspur forward Son Heung-min, who completed a brief three-week basic training stint in 2020 after winning the Asian Games gold two years prior. Golfer Tom Kim also secured his exemption through an Asian Games victory.
"I deeply regret having spoken so carelessly, and I will continue to reflect on my actions." "I sincerely apologise to all the fans who have supported us wholeheartedly and who are doing their utmost to fulfil their military duty."
Lee Gi-huk
In a subsequent social media statement highlighted by local outlets, Lee expressed profound regret for his careless remarks, offering a sincere apology to both supporters and citizens currently fulfilling their mandatory military obligations.
Source: BBC Sport
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