Seoul:The head of South Korea's military manpower agency has expressed regret over the reaction of South Korean footballers to their exemption from mandatory military service following their victory at the Asian Games.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Military Manpower Administration Commissioner Hong So-young made these remarks during a parliamentary audit. Some of the gold medalists had publicly celebrated their exemptions in media interviews and on social media, prompting significant public backlash and renewed discussions on policy reform.

Hong stated, "I deeply regret this unfortunate situation," acknowledging the disappointment felt by young men currently serving in the military and the public's demand for reform.

Following their gold medal win in men's football at the Asian Games on October 3, player Yang Min-hyeok admitted to the media that his main motivation was to earn the military exemption rather than the medal itself. Another team member, Park Seung-soo, posted a photo wearing a cap associated with completing military service, further inciting public outrage.

In South Korea, all able-bodied men must undergo 18 to 21 months of military service. However, top-performing athletes and artists can fulfill their service through 34 months of alternative community work, exempting them from active military duty.

Hong emphasized that the government is planning an overhaul to raise eligibility criteria and limit the number of competitions that provide exemptions. "We have established a consensus with the culture ministry ... and it is subject to final review," she said, promising a reform plan by next year.

With public discontent growing, the defense ministry announced last week that it is considering reducing or eliminating the exemption program for athletes and artists, with more details to be provided in its upcoming defense reform plan.