Seoul: The Army has announced a significant policy shift that will permit qualified noncommissioned officers to transition to long-term service starting in 2028. This change is part of a comprehensive personnel overhaul aimed at enhancing job security for these essential military members.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the decision comes at a time when the Army is facing challenges in attracting noncommissioned officers. These officers are considered the backbone of the military, and their recruitment has been impacted by a decrease in the number of newly appointed officers and the nation's declining population. Previously, only the top 20 percent of noncommissioned officers who applied were selected for long-term service, which requires a minimum commitment of seven years. This year, the selection rate was expanded to 50 percent.

The Army's new plan aims to allow all candidates without disqualifications to serve long-term, beginning in 2028. Last year, the number of noncommissioned officers in long-term service increased to 3,900, compared to approximately 3,000 in previous years.

Additionally, the Army is planning to reduce the service period required for promoting a staff sergeant to sergeant first class from six to four years by 2028. If put into effect, this would shorten the promotion period to 3.2 years from the current 4.3 years by that time.

The Army also intends to equip noncommissioned officers with skills in cutting-edge technologies, such as manned and unmanned teaming combat systems and drone combat capabilities. Furthermore, it plans to enhance benefits and compensation, including raising the average monthly wage of staff sergeants to approximately 3 million won (US$1,950) by 2027.