EXO's Kai's Bali vacation sparks debate on military enlistment responsibilities

Kai is anticipated to serve in the military for about 18 months, with his discharge slated for February 2025, completing his service obligations with one more year to go.

EXO's Kai has been recently spotted indulging in a vacation in Bali, Indonesia, amid discussions surrounding his mandatory military enlistment. The photos from his getaway have ignited a fervent debate about the intricacies of public service rules, particularly in the context of South Korea's mandatory military service for able-bodied male citizens.

Kai, whose real name is Kim Jong-in, has garnered immense fame as a member of the globally renowned K-pop group EXO. With his remarkable talents in singing, dancing, and performance, he has captivated fans worldwide. However, like all South Korean men, he faces the obligation of military service, which typically lasts around 18 to 21 months. Kai
began his military service on May 11, 2023.

OP saw Jongin riding his bicycle when they were crossing the road with their friend earlier today! OP also said that Jongin was humming to a song while riding his bike~ㅠㅠ pic.twitter.com/PIITU5lqj4

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— 쉰花 ️ (@xunhuas) June 6, 2023

The sight of Kai enjoying a vacation has spurred various reactions from the public. Some fans express their delight in seeing him relish his free time, viewing it as a well-deserved break after years of hard work. Others, however, voice concerns about the timing of his vacation, questioning whether it aligns with the principles of fulfilling one's mandatory military service promptly and responsibly.

#카이 #KAI HEY GUYS LOOK‼️
In Korea, social service personnel can apply for overseas travel, so KAI as a social service personnel , can travel overseas during the military service, as long as the application is completed, SO PLEASE DO NOT RUMORS Everything he did was legal! pic.twitter.com/iQDPZjMgSm

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— 퓨퓨 (@zkdlinforever) May 4, 2024

Leave Jongin alone, losers! This photo you are using is from June 2023, when he was off in Korea, on holiday there! Stop stick your nose in Kai's life and go to work! It is the real Bali image! He is in vacation!#Jongin #KAI #military_era pic.twitter.com/QJTW7XPDTN

— Can’t remember anything before ya... (@Athenasjustice1) May 4, 2024

Moreover, discussions arise regarding the fairness and equality in the implementation of military service regulations. Some argue that celebrities receive preferential treatment or leniency in fulfilling their obligations, citing instances where their enlistment dates seem to coincide conveniently with their career schedules. Others counter that such perceptions may be unfounded.

In adherence to South Korea's mandatory military service regulations, male citizens are required to enlist before turning 28 years old. Despite attempts to introduce legislation for exemptions, including a proposed bill aimed at easing the enlistment burden on K-pop idols, only the so-called 'BTS law' was enacted. This law allows members of
K-pop groups to postpone their enlistment until the age of 30.

In line with these regulations, EXO's Kai began his military service preparations amidst gearing up for the group's comeback in 2023. Having reached the age of 30 in Korean reckoning in January of the previous year, Kai didn't meet the criteria for exemption and commenced his military duty on May 11. Following his initial training, he assumed the role of a public worker.

Kai's military service duration is expected to span approximately 18 months. With another year left to serve, the idol is slated for discharge in February 2025, marking the completion of his military obligations.