What happens in Korean Mandatory Military Service (told by Korean male)

[@KelseytheKorean]

Watch Part 2: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g5vKhppja5Kiac0

[@juliemarie3082]

I feel like a lot of these men really struggle mentally after their service and since mental health is basically a taboo topic in Korea, they suffer silently. I watched Danny and David's video about their experience in the military and you can clearly see that they blocked out a lot of traumatic memories from that time. It's obvious that military service in Korea is not going anywhere anytime soon, but at least I hope the environment there can change for the better.

[@truthteller839]

Erm it’s other men doing it u pickme

[@liandrysanguish3103]

@@truthteller839 Women showing empathy to people suffering is considered as pickme? I can tell you went through some brain washing by some radical feminists on reddit

[@oraz.]

Maybe you shouldn't support an ideology that describes men's experience as privileged then.

[@xyzz2540]

@@liandrysanguish3103 i dont think the person meant the commenter but the men in military behaving as pick me by bullying newbies because they themselves were bullied.

[@doubletrouble3241]

A lot of girls are bullied in their high schools by other girls, too. Bullying is not just a military thing. Why don't you talk about it too? Also some bullies in military are women. It is not just a male thing either. Here are a lot of all-knowing, prejudiced and arrogant feminists who love to talk anything negative about Korean society and it seems that Kelsey, a Korean feminist is making fun of Korea and she think her criticism make herself superior over 99% of Koreans who she look down on.

[@multistan9650]

I’ve always been interested in what actually happens during their service, so I think this is a good learning opportunity.

[@KelseytheKorean]

Definitely

[@Honeyfruity]

I think the biggest problem is the top down mentality of koreans . Also the senior thing just because someone is older doesn´t mean he is better. Respect has to be earned . Why would someone respect a shitty person just because he is older. That is insane to me. Every culture has it´s problems but bullying someone just because you were bullied is beyond me.

[@lonnie3892]

That type of mentality is very pervasive in S.K. culture, not just the military unfortunately.

[@rosean374]

@@lonnie3892 i wish the millenials and younger wouldnt put up with it.

[@lonnie3892]

You and me both. It would take a strong will of the younger generation to stand against a lot of the outdated thoughts and behaviors that reside here. Small steps have been made, but the other thing to realize is that SK is fairly new to the globalization movement. While there's this "face" or appearance of looking modern, socially, it's still behind in a lot of areas. One example is it not having any anti discrimination laws that protect foreign workers who live and work here against unlawful acts.

[@Honeyfruity]

@@lonnie3892 very well said. I was struggeling with my owen comment because I thought is it really my place to critizes other cultures ( because I think this is a problem not just in SK but whole asia ). But I just don't understand it from a human standpoint. On the other hand when it is not brought up how can it change. I wish just people would be kinder to eachother.

[@sarang2037]

Even though mostly in Asian culture they taught us to respect person who is elder than us .it used to be a great sign of manner nd respect but it changed into this somehow .thank god in our country yes, we respect the elder only till that line is not crossed by him or her.

[@dredd7]

That very point... "we were bullied so we will bully the juniors" It was done to us so we will take it out on the next. That has to stop. This has been an insightful watch. Thank you!

[@charicetmg1884]

Their mindset should be changed "we were bullied and gone through such a pain which we don't want so next generation shouldn't be gone through such a pain by us"

[@dotdotdotdotdotdotdottod]

That was my moms logic as well. And this type of behivor just leads and continues the abuse. And the people that usally fight against fixing the problem and say things like " there going soft on people" are envious because they wernt treated with the respect they too deserved and should recive help from the abuse they recived During that time to know what happend to them. Wasent okay

[@sunnygirl7669]

@@charicetmg1884 frrrr

[@Melcor2304]

@@charicetmg1884 In summary, they lack empathy for others.

[@telmoalmeida840]

Actually I had a similar experience, I was part of a military school, of course it's not the same, but there are similar points since it was a boarding school. This question of what they did to me so I'm going to do it, it was a mentality that also existed in the school where I was, me particularly, thanks to my education and my personality as well as ideas, I never agreed with such a thought, I was always the type of person who says, Don't do to others what you wouldn't want them to do to you, incredible as it may seem, many couldn't think that way, which resulted in the constant repetition of the same mistakes, people said things like "this is how I was taught and learned, so I'm going to teach others the same way". In military life it is difficult to change many times the way many think, many do it because they think they will be cool by doing it to others and Truth be told, of the places that change little or the teachings don't change are the military places (military clubs, academies, schools etc) these usually preserve a lot the teachings and deeds of the ancestors, I'm not against it, I just think that people should know how to filter. A topic that would also be interesting to hear a little about is education in the country, in the face of bullying, cultural differences, how to deal with racism, how not to be racist, among others.

[@BrieFee]

I feel so sorry for these young men. There is also a mandatory military service for male citizens here in Switzerland, there are even discussions on recruiting women for the military in the future as well. As far as I can say, all my male friends who had to go to the military, luckily, didn't experience this type of harassment. Maybe some minor disputes, that's it. A lot of my friends actually even enjoyed going to the army because it was a nice "break" before going of to university or entering the professional world. Most of the guys go the military right after finishing high school or an apprenticeship. I know, because of your political situation you can't get rid of the service. But I'm sure you can definitely make it a lot more tolerable. :)

[@NisaK_BTSVT]

My friends who went to the swiss military told me it's a joke :D hahaha

[@purpleteardropss]

what's the point of mandatory service in Switzerland when this country is neutral and didn't even participate in WW1 and WW2..

[@modderbad]

@@purpleteardropss for future wars, duh??

[@linkfromzelda1002]

I’d flee the country lmao

[@truthteller839]

U pickmes feel sorry for men yet they created this system and these laws

[@dianalest553]

Omg!, thank you for speaking about this, I think it's very important to have a more real perspective about what is really happening there and not just to have the image that kdramas try to portrait

[@KelseytheKorean]

Yup I learned a lot about it too

[@truthteller839]

U pickmes feel sorry for men yet they created this system and these laws

[@Melcor2304]

Read webtoons, they also depict how bad bullying is in school, which can bleed out into the military due to having this culture.

[@novaskyzero]

I am in American Army and when i was in Korea, we worked with Korean soldiers in our units and they told us how little they got paid and how much better it was working on American base than Korean military base because they were treated better. Im happy knowing its getting better for everyone as time goes on

[@mayankjha7444]

In Indian army there's a saying a colonel is the mother of the unit he should take care of the unit until his last breath and in return a unit can mercilessly kill if a colonel is even touched by the enemy. This attitude promotes patriotism i think due to compulsory korean military service they have lost their way. What a shame glad you guys got them covered other wise that country's done

[@shannonbrown5913]

Hmmm...as a prior service member in the U.S. Navy, I can understand everything he is saying because the techniques for military training and development haven't changed and are pretty similar no matter what country you serve in. I could tell you some stories about the U.S. Navy that would make your head spin. And sexual assault is common for woman in the military because usually the ratio for males to females is like 7:1. I'm not making excuses, but this is common behavior for most military organizations world wide.

[@mosesyang8173]

you ain't lying about that....seen and heard alot my self being a marine and all

[@shannonbrown5913]

@@mosesyang8173 It’s essentially military culture, and everything is predicated on following orders and discipline in combat. That’s why the behavior will continue to exist. It’s hard to trick the mind into going against your ingrained nature…but militaries have found a way to do it.

[@mosesyang8173]

@@shannonbrown5913 and how do you do that trickery of yours

[@shannonbrown5913]

@@mosesyang8173 😂 Classified - Secret. 😉

[@adramalech3385]

Till today he sneaks from his wife in the morning to honour his time in the navy, in the toilet.

[@EN-nz5xe]

It is so awful that bullying and harassment is so common. It can’t be the best way to make the military a strong and efficient organisation. Thinking about all those young people who get hurt this way makes me sad. The idea that the new ones should suffer just because their seniors did is in one way understandable but still so stupid. I hope more and more people in the military realise this and work to remove the bullying. Thank you Kelsey, and thank you to your friend for talking about this!

[@rominafalconi5589]

It seems crazy to me that at the end, these men will end up paying the government to maintain more men in the military. Do you think an increase in the military budget to provide a better monthly pay for soldiers would be good? Anyways, interesting and informative video thanks! :)

[@PrincessSakuno]

Holy shit :( alot of Korean military life sounds like it's soul crushing 😔 Jesus. Thanks for your hard work bringing out this good content

[@Mimi24177]

Do not curse and then use Jesus name. For that is unholy.

[@kevinjoker2]

@@Mimi24177 Goddamn that's some fucked up shit. Jesus Christ.

[@ums2579]

@@kevinjoker2 Haha Jesus Christ!

[@eheheheh143]

this just crushed my heart! I get that Korea needs the men and women to be militarily ready in case any incident like a war occurs. But, this is just like you’re getting paid for all the abuse, and that too forcibly! Ugh!

[@cristinavalle117]

I think it will be interesting if he talks about how Idols and celebrities are treated in the military, if they receive special treatment or more bullying, I heard G Dragon received a lot of bullying

[@voyageautourdumondedesanim8567]

I don't think that the first option work in military.

[@fatheematomobolajishofunde1524]

I think Gdragon is still suffering from that mental health from military,you can see that he looks so depressed after coming back from military and it's so sad

[@csoniah4432]

What why would they do that to him ? Jealousy ?

[@blueberryxyz4543]

I didn't know that what happened to GD?

[@zhasyane]

Gosh..

[@AVIEXPLAINS]

Here in india you need to give written exam first and get high score then go for physical exam and get high score in that aswell (although government was planning to bring a bill where people will be able to serve in military for 2 years voluntarily but was delayed due to covid) The reason they gave on not making it mandatory :- In a democracy, anything “compulsory” is seen as being against the democratic principles of “freedom to choose” (btw i gave the exam for military but failed the physical exam)

[@mobilegames6258]

It's population not democracy

[@AVIEXPLAINS]

@@mobilegames6258 nope population isn't just like other countries india can also Start retiring the old officers and make it mandatory for young people to just serve for 2 years but the problem will be mindset the people who went voluntarily will always outperform the people who were forced.

[@ritviksood8164]

@@AVIEXPLAINS population also plays a big role in it. The demand for military in india is very high. Compulsory military draft would just be stupid and immoral despite having so many people appearing for exams.

[@rahulthapa108]

India has 2nd largest population. I'm indian with a lot of my family in military itself. It's not mandatory in our country coz of two reasons democracy but population is what plays a major role. Also we are at this time where even if government does implement such a law people would definitely oppose it. Also india is not war prone like south korea

[@rahulthapa108]

@@ritviksood8164 Yess. It's more about quality over quantity. They can implement mandatory service but most of them will be half assed or just really couldn't perform well enough. Hence it's better to recruit those who are willing to join rather than forcing to jooin since they will underperform. Also like u said military demand is high. If it wasn't they wouldn't recruit people from Nepal in army. As i said it's quality over quantity which is great. Unfortunately South Korea doesn't have that option since it's smaller in size n smaller in population and is very war prone. So mandatory service is necessary for themselves

[@arwen7121]

Thank you Kelsey for talking about this, can't wait for part two. I'm happy you have friends who are open-minded and kind enough to share stuff like this 💖😊. It'll get better, South Korea is getting alot of global attention so sooner or later South Korea will feel pressured to improve/change in some areas like this. Like he said, there's a big push right now. 💖

[@melinaharker9177]

It sounds like people get institutionalized during their period of mandatory service. Like your friend said, no matter what ideals or morals someone might have had before starting their service, being constantly surrounded by abuse whether it is done to you or to others, you become inured to it and everything you might have thought before just goes out the window.

[@tereesatompkins2921]

I just watched DP and wondered if it was accurate. I think that the female officers father did right by stirring up things to get his daughters case investigated. He lost his daughter over some perverted persons desires. My heart goes out to her family. Sad that anyone would think it's okay to cover it up.

[@fatheematomobolajishofunde1524]

Same, when I watched D.P last year I was like feeling that it may be fictional because no one should go through that kind of shits

[@ums2579]

Hey.. DP is just a piece of cake haha. If you know the details of culture of the violence at every branch in Korean mandatory military service, you are going to feel sick.

[@tereesatompkins2921]

So sad. No wonder so many young men are afraid of the service there😢

[@harlee2191]

It's so very sad that this happens. Majority of militaries function the same. Nothing makes the news until there's a tragedy

[@Layfizzi1]

I was hoping that what I watched in D.P was all hyperbolic. I’m shocked and saddened to see that there is a lot of truth about what happens behind closed doors in the Korean military.

[@fatheematomobolajishofunde1524]

Same!! I kept telling myself after my watching D.P about 6months ago that it's fictional, can't believe it's real

[@sumayyahEr78]

What is D.P? Someone help me I'm so curious😭😭 I have heard about Pentagon member got discharged from military bcs of his conditions.. it's not good and his mental health is in critical.. and then here I'm worrying about jin and other kpop idols like baekhyun and more..

[@nataliamendez7163]

​@@sumayyahEr78it's a Netflix series that reflects the bullying and harassment reality of military service

[@sirmem7845]

Unfortunately, most of the stories in the drama were based on actual events.

[@deusex9731]

im so happy that mandatory military service got halted in Germany and i hope it stays like that. Unlike Korea we arent in close proximity to a hostile country or incoming war and im really happy about that. I cant imagine my male friends leaving for a year for military service. My ex boyfriend was in service in Austria and he also told stories about harrassment, bullying and his own personal experience with a female officer that harrassed the young male soldiers. Overall military seems like a shitty place to be

[@PAULSGEO]

That’s exactly the reason why Austria sucks

[@Mirzeli13]

There seems to be no common sense in Korean military with the bullying. Like if war breaks out do they ever think about ending up with a smaller army because of the suicide?! They should be trained to serve, respect, and defend their home not get bullied into suicide like??? It’s mind boggling!

[@Evejackson777.]

The fact that so many men are dying in the military is startling. Its crazy how that system of bullying and violence has not changed or will ever change. It’s almost like they have to go through two years of slavery and for what the morale is not there to fight for your country if the system is corrupt and unstable at least that’s why I wouldn’t agree to do it, or have anyone do this.

[@shaight6466]

This is horrible for all these young men to have to submit to sexual abuse on a daily basis...I have no words for the female officer who committed suicide !...So sad !

[@burntsolis3942]

It's sad that their government isn't doing anything about the mental health of their military. You want soldiers who can find for your country, not someone who is mentally unhealthy due to all the stress that may be mostly due to the training itself to go out into the battlefield. God knows when the gun their holding might not be aiming towards the enemy, but their own temple instead.

[@bel6611]

I've always been curious about how ppl deal with mental health in armies and how many people take off their own life, not only in SK, but in particular in SK because of the already high number of this cases among koreans. Thank you for doing these videos. Btw, I've heard that navy is worse than other military forces, I wonder why.

[@samaraisnt]

I have also heard that about the navy! I posit(just a guess) that it is because it is the most isolated so there are less consequences as there's less supervision + proximity and opportunity...i used to be known as the gay one where all the men had sex so maybe it's just boats that make people horny but now that there's women they direct their predation on them. :/

[@sumayyahEr78]

Erm I want to know what the worse thing is like in navy? Treatment for soldiers? Bullying case? Suicide? Food? Sorry so many questions in my head..

[@0M366Y]

This was definitely an eye opening interview but now I’m left with more questions😭. Im happy to hear the culture is improving but change doesn’t come easy when those who are the reasons things the way they are stay in power.

[@maybelline127]

this is crazzzyyyyy…. thank u so much kelsey and the guy on the phone especially for sharing the stories! 🙏🏻 i wish it gets better

[@micaelaclifford2729]

I've actually talked through an app with a Korean men, we dated online and one time we got drunk though video call and he started telling me about his "trauma" because of the Military, since we don't speak the same language he only expressed to me like "Because of the military I weight 25 more kilos", "I didn't like it. I didn't enjoy it", he smokes a lot and drinks a lot (by the way I know this is very Korean anyways but he got drunk often) and truly I didn't know what to say to him because I didn't know the truth about the Military and nobody talks about how we should comfront this topic. Men also suffer from mental health after their service and is should be something to worry about. As an Argentinian women, I wish more fair treatement for Koreans in the Military Service, both Women workers and Men serving. I'll pray for everyone there.

[@kpopqn]

Oh I'm worried for BTS 😢😢😢

[@hayleyfuentes6110]

Now I'm officially terrified for tannies 💔

[@Myselfandme999]

1 year and 9 months is crazy! Here in Switzerland we have mandatory service too, but it is 21 weeks. And your employer has to keep your job open for you, they can't just fire you or fill it. So the guys have a normal live to go back to in an easy way. Plus they get weekends at home pretty regularly too, to see family or a partner. So it sucks, but not for such a long time.

[@LPnerd]

You need to post this on places where ARMY will see it. ARMY needs to start writing letters to Government, and military and get this bullying stopped.

[@Irinaira6179]

Agree

[@LPnerd]

@ʚ ᗢ sigh, yes, I'm aware .and letter writing is one of those things. You are obvs not ARMY, but maybe you should look into some of things they been able to accomplish? You might find it interesting.

[@yaseminmirzanli6668]

Fantastic video Kelsey. Thank you for sharing. This is so interesting to hear about. Very sad to hear how toxic things can get though

[@TattoedKiss]

It's really REALLY weird how she's all smiley and happy talking about people commiting suicide Almost as it brings her satisfaction

[@ums2579]

You know the exact point. Because it's none of their business. That is how Korean treat a soldier. They don't want to think about it and want to keep it isolated and don't show a god damn respect for soldiers in South Korea. Because they just want to take advantage of this fuxking system forever. You keep doing someone's favor for free every day, then it becomes your job. So, who cares about this system?

[@gayfield420]

you went from 1-2000 with absolutely 0 breaks or a thought going through your mind.

[@lucymay446]

I think this toxic behaviour is just rooted in the fact that it's a service made by men for men that will serve male ideals. And as we know toxic male attributes are toxic to everyone. So the fact that this system is still pushing this ideal is just so damaging to men. The toxic idea that men have to be strong in all aspects just explains why the senior officers are carrying on this toxic bullying behaviour as they haven't been taught the healthy way to deal with their issues and how to heal. Not to say "oh I went through shit and now so should you because that's fair" !?? If that was the normality nothing in society would change. There has to be a moment where people make a change and encourage others to do the same. Men are people and people of course have feeling and mental issues that need to be respected. Men need to grow up in an environment where they learn to respect themselves and eachother no matter who they are. If they're going against North Korea they need to show that the south's way of living is the right way, in that people are respected and happy. Not beaten down miserable like they would be in the north. I think the if the service were to continue they would have to be some sort of therapist on sight to look after then and make sure each guy knows how to great with his shit and isn't making anyone else's life shit. plus then there would be a safe space where guys could go if they needed someone to talk to.

[@danishapereira8637]

North Koreans that defected to SK have stated that this culture in SK is suffocating and depressing although they have so much freedom. The competition and criticism is devastating

[@ums2579]

It's because of the isolation, strict rules, poor environments and isolated for a long time. The poor system and culture of the violence passed down from generation to generation in the isolated place. That's the reason why it was so difficult to change the system and definitely There are no motivation for soldiers at all. No one cares what kind of shit you've been through and no one wants to know and no one shows a god damn respect for the soldiers in South Korea. They just think these shits were natural and just want to keep it isolated. Because everyone can just take advantages from this fuxking system, while you are suffering shits in the military service. So, who cares about it?

[@toodie535]

not to mention also that positions can be bought and sold--corruption is rampant throughout all Asia--everything has a price and extortion is the name of the game in every day existence. This straight from a refugee from Cambodia.

[@gsilveroak]

Thanks to your friend for sharing his insight. It was eye opening. I hope the toxic bullying, and assault will stop. Even one suicide from this is too many! I thank him for his service to your country. When is part 2 coming? He also has a lovely voice, please tell him that 😊

[@aerita7608]

Omg 2-3 people per day..imagine being member of the family waiting to see you after 2 years just to know that u have passed away

[@Mr.Nichan]

13:57 This reminds me of how the UN tries to hush up it's huge rape problem (in aid and peacekeeping missions, particularly).

[@m...k7517]

The army man talk about serious matter and you still laughing Exp:suicide How can you enjoying that much. After All these are deep conversation.

[@yessica5231]

Thank you Kelsey and thank you to your friend for being so open with sharing! This was very interesting and I really appreciate it

[@please.excuse.my.nonsense]

This kind of no-better-than-my-experience logic is the same reason hazing continues in Greek Life in America. He’s right - when you’re surrounded by that toxic culture, it’s hard not to lose your personal principles. The poison corrupts you.

[@louiswager2629]

My father was a Korean War veteran, combat engineer, there's a reason why the South Koreans have a free country today, they fought for their freedom, the ROK forces fought beside their UN brothers. South Korea is an example of freedom and success.

[@star_moon6883]

wow thanks to you and your friend for this interview and being honest about what goes on. random question I’ve always wondered: Do men usually move out of their apartments and back into their parents homes right before enlistment to save money?? do apartment complexes make them still pay rent or is there some type of legal wavier to not pay rent while being an active soldier?

[@bellef7687]

I’ve been curious about this too

[@kit-nun5476]

@@bellef7687 same

[@ums2579]

There are no legal waiver system for soldiers in South Korea. For example, if your contraction ends on December and you suddenly have to join the army on June, you have to find a new tenant by a realtor giving a fee to the realtor or by yourself. If you can’t find a new tenant, you have to pay for six months rent. But you have to talk with your landlord first. If the landlord is kind, then the landlord will give you a fair deal, but not for free. If the landlord is not a kind person, then you will have to pay the rent for six months or cancel the contract. If you cancel the contract during your rent, you won’t get your deposit back. So, in this situation you will have to find a new tenant ASAP.

[@jessicamong1586]

Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand men do national service. Singapore men complete 3 months base training before enter into military, civil defence, police.

[@HopeeInk]

okay but what was the cap driver doing while this poor lady got harassed in his car?

[@crowfeathers4025]

As an army hearing this I really hope BTS doesn't go thru this. I know this may seem selfish to say seeing as I'm a foreigner but I would never want something like that to happen to someone I care about.

[@EfeFlet]

I'm a VIP and honestly I was very scared when BigBang had to go. I'm sure it was not super hard for Taeyang and Daesung because they went together and it seems they had no problrm, but GD looked terrible. I was mostly scared for TOP but after the suicide attempt he did something like social services or something and I'm grateful for that honestly, I don't think he would have lasted in the military. I hope that, if your idols have to go, their experience is somewhat positive and don't have to face these horrible things the video mentioned :)

[@itsnlee]

It’s strange because I would’ve thought if you’ve been bullied and you know what it feels like, you’d never want to pass that on to someone else. But then again, it’s like Joker. It’s not justifiable, but it’s understandable how villains are made not born. Insightful video and im glad the military conditions is getting better for these young men.

[@iamjia95]

Physical and mental health is important I don’t understand why there is no effective measures taken by the Korean gov to stop these things from happening men will be traumatized from wearing that military outfit forever.

[@m.marzok7070]

In Egypt I think it's way worse. Even the food is awful and living conditions in the desert is very hard. But this is because they prepare you to actual war situations. In war, if you are taken as a hostage, you will get bullied, sweared at, starved and beaten! So you have to be mentally prepared for these situations if an actual war occured. This is the reason. But, they don't take males from college you finish college first but you can't travel abroad or get married or do a lot of things untill you finish your recruiting. From only a year to 3 years with higher ranking officers. I'm a girl and I don't know all the details but military is very hard and I think the difference between in Korea and Egypt is that soldiers always stick together there is no bullying between them, not so many rankings and no seniors between the same year recruits.

[@juventina]

Honestly I can understand why the ministry would want to sort issues like these internally because it is just really different in the military and their laws and courts are different and they really have an image to keep because it involves nationwide safety so quite frankly at most times this is the smart thing to do! What baffles me is what happened to that poor female officer who sadly passed away because of that jerk senior's sexual harassment!!! I mean, there was evidene. She resisted and even if he was drunk that is no excuse for such horrible behavior.. she could have felt much better had he apologized, reflected on his horrible actions, did not get away with it and was disciplined.. Please tell us he at least got the punishment he deserved!! I am sure he hates his life now that she is no longer here.

[@naurrrr6719]

@5:43 i didn't see anything funny...suicide and mental health issue are really serious. If what that person said abt the suicide cases is true, it would be better to take it more seriously and have some empathy.

[@anaamikaa3632]

What is up with this mentality? Men really do make everyone's life living hell, irrespective of gender. Thank god for the few good ones who have their morals in the right place. I mean, what kind of a hobby/entertainment is bullying??

[@Jiji_here_431]

Military messes one up lol regardless of nations or genders

[@susanhamilton961]

This is so sad...I know that Taemin from Shinee was taken from where he was serving to a facility due to depression condition...what did they do to him? Kang Tae Oh just recently went & just looking at his face made me feel something is off. Omgosh why are they assaulting females and getting away with it???? Their military needs to be gone through~ the people serving military time should be treated with respect~ these are the people who serve their country undo death when it's necessary! As the world is now~ so troubled, they should receive the finest treatment, not be bullied & set upon & used. Can't something be done?

[@vk-om7sh]

If you take into account the Joseon years, the Japanese occupation, the Park Chung-Hee years South Korean has a "democracy" for less than 50 years. Not a long tradition and many scandals. It has a very high corruption index. Prostitution is illegal but it is 13 billion dollar business annualy. The women are brainwashed to have plastic surgeries and apply every day tons of makeup to conform to a strange beauty standard established by fashion and entertainment conglomerate. It is good that the life in the military is improving but they need enforceable laws to protect human rights, women rights, discrimination, fare compensation for work and overtime pay etc. The corporations make tons of money and have too much influence but it seems the money does not trickle down to the masses.

[@betterdays320]

If you search in internet military bullying most of the search results show South Korea.If military personnel are bully or being bullied how are they going to protect the civilians then?I am from India and Indian Armed Forces have always made every Indian proud.If you watch Indian Republic Day Parade you will come to know what India means to every Indian soldier. Souldn't military be all about patriotism?How could bullying be there I can't even imagine!If it remains like this how somebody would feel enthusiastic about enlistment?

[@cindywhite3914]

I don't care what your age is or where you live, sex abuse and rape is religiously and criminally wrong no matter who you are and you should be arrested. Culture should never be an excuse either. NO EXCEPTIONS!!

[@junuhunuproductions]

Out of respect, I found it a bit repulsive that you were laughing about death count of soldiers from suicide, etc. I know you are just stunned from the fact, but still I believe it's because it's not so relevant for your case. And for the women soldier's case, you definitely kept more straight face, although it was only a single death. I wish there was more sympathy from you on the more general male soldier counterpart.

[@yurinseo7725]

I feel sorry for those men in mandatory in Korea. In Greece also they have similar . But thankfully it improving and soldiers help and support each other

[@worshipthecomedygodseoeunk4010]

bruh I knew this guy from our korean cultural org at college who was a korean international student and he was such a bright, cheerful guy when I met him. He asked me how to write my Korean name, and he sent me and our org members personal postcards when he was over in korea before his service. he was so sweet, but after the year and a half he was gone, he came back so stoic. He completely changed. You could tell something was off about him compared to before. He didn't acknowledge me or my friend at all when we tried to say hi. I honestly felt a lot of resentment and anger, but now that I hear about how traumatizing service can be, I feel bad. he must've been through a lot.

[@sanguinemcorda4310]

Can you imagine any of bts going through this hell. Its breaking my heart thinking about it.

[@minjiekim8794]

well its not just bts suffering there its all the other dudes too

[@sanguinemcorda4310]

@@minjiekim8794 yes but I love bts so I'm worried about them more than others . Also nobody should be going through this

[@sabb5829]

Women in the military aren’t safe in most places unfortunately 😔

[@yxumi]

I have so much respect for everyone who works in the military it has alot of hardships for both men and women but the guy and the girl who committed suicide really broke my heart and like the way she resisted him politely really fucks me up RIP for all those who committed suicide.

[@NilasWorld1990]

It must've been exhausting to add subs for this... thanks so much for sharing this (and the your friend also!) 💜

[@jaystrickland4151]

I lived in Korea as a solider. I loved working with the Katusa, I admired their drive and dedication. Sometimes their sergeant major would cancel their weekend and I know they had it far easier. Also Question when he discusses female officers is he refereeing only to Commissioned officers or does he include non commissioned officers( such as 하사 and 중사) and warrant officers (준위)?

[@둥둥둥둥-g8k]

카투사는 꿀이잖니 ^^

[@user-tq1ob4ny1d]

And there are still a lot of Korean women who make fun of the soldiers and say that men are going for a camp

[@sdinthevalley]

I've been waiting for this. Thanks for doing this topic which many of us are interested in.

[@lilheven1238]

No celebrities should be exempted. They are not above the people.

[@rue.eudoxie]

No hate but why was she giggling when they were talking about the men who committed suicide?? like huh

[@Gus19]

Noté lo mismo. Eso fue más perturbador para mi que lo que el ex soldado contaba 😐

[@DonnaMagda]

Count your blessing people! Every day here is a gift

[@bll3tprft73]

Im so worried about jin

[@liltomboy2593]

In the country I live in, guys of the age of 19-20 with the countries citizenship are also forced to serve the military for a year or so. However they can choose to continue military training for 4 years or more and work there or leave after the mandatory year. Girls of the age of 18 and up can volenteer for military training when they have the citizenship too. I didnt hear of harassment or suicide cases there even tho I live near a military training camp and see soldiers from time to time in uniforms and backpacks. I really hope stronger measurements are made for them and that the mental health is checked for them from time to time. The mandate sounds like hell there...

[@denii7094]

this is horrible, but it's very common all around the world, any wrong doing from a state body is never publicly exposed and even when it's leaked it's never mentioned what punishmente will the guilty person faze, they just wait until the public forgets about it and give that person a pass with a slap on the wrist. something needs to change.

[@dohyeon2806]

I have a few years till I have to serve my years in the Singaporean military. I hope I don't go through anything like what was mentioned.

[@IshaanMenon]

i'm sorry but "kind guys like me" reads like a massive red flag-

[@rose-so2js]

When you've seen a lot you gotta express the fact

[@DaFireElf]

hi, this was a really cool video! i really enjoyed learning about military service in korea, since it's been mentioned by a lot of my korean friends but they never go in depth about what it's like. i have one small suggestion though: sometimes i'm not sure who is speaking, since i'm only reading the subtitles, so would it be possible for you to put different colors to indicate who is speaking so it would be easier to follow along?

[@jardeakane7799]

Please make a part 2! This was very informative. Thank you.

[@PerfectNightHere]

They say women is petty Looks at how petty guys are. Repeating the bully cycle again and again

[@ameliakajiyama6259]

Sadly, a common problem in usa military too.

[@beautifulloly]

Thank you to your Friend for sharing all of this it's really interesting especially coming from a very different culture.

[@mairiconnell6282]

I am a volunteer Army veteran and I feel sorry for the men who do not want to do Mandatory Service. It's never easy being in a place where you do not want to be. However, that place is within your borders and the guys will never experience real soldiering in the likes of Afghanistan. In 6 months my sons Corps which is the Royal Marines Commandoes lost 35 men with many loosing up to three limbs. So lets get things into perspective here. The Mandatory Service is a show of force to the North and reassures the international community that Korea can carry a weapon and knows how to fire it. The Korean young seem to have forgotten how the combined Forces of the UN came to fight on their behalf. I have been told that in 1950 around 80% of the adult population was illiterate. In 1953 a worn torn country had to be rebuilt with international money

[@definitlynotbenlente7671]

I an from a country without militairy service and i honestly do not think i would be able to do it

[@discount_juseyo5321]

This happens in all military, all across the world, not only korea.

[@이십삼번]

very interesting but also shocking to hear all that, thank you for making this video!! 😊🙏🏻

[@gregtegreg]

The bullying of new recruits is not a Korean mentality, it's everywhere in the army, common practice. I refused to do it and I was considered weak because of it. Usually the more stupid a guy is, the more bullying he does, it's pretty obvious.

[@pnk4120]

Lol and ppl care for their idols, forgetting that their idols Contribute to their country economy and as celebrities the Military management is careful around them. You should worry about the normal ppl

[@yunenofune]

Just to be fair, I'll argue with you, because this is not a correct mindset. Normal people have it horrible, yes, and most of the things they have to endure are not put out in the spotlight. But that's the exact problem with idols. Everything they do or go through is put out in the spotlight. And no, military is not more careful with them. In fact, some officers decide to put them through harsher treatment because they want to prove they aren't giving them "celebrity treatment". Take Taemin for example. He's a shy, gentle person who was put through 8 months of literal hell before he was transferred to social service work. It's not easy for them, either. Military in SK is bad for everyone.

[@ElberethOhGilthoniel]

Military service in Greece is only one year,no exemptions no matter how famous you are,unless you are disabled or the only adult male left in your family. However depending on your connections and the amount of money you have available for bribing,you can sometimes skip it. The actual experience is relatively easy as I've been told,think that according to a friend the worst thing he had to do while serving was cooking for everyone,but there are hard posts like watching the borders or standing for hours straight under the sun as a member of the presidential guard (they only accept very tall and fit men for this). Despite the more humane conditions,bullying by superior officers or mostly older men is sadly still an issue.

[@melvadeguzman583]

Just guarantee protections safety and security for BTS. That will be hard mental, emotional and physical adjustments. Environment will be different...pray that they all endure the military boot camp and training. Different people from all walks of life nice., bad, bullies and angry people that are probably mad at people and they will do everything to make their military service hard and not safe. Military culture is different. If the govt can exempt other artist and athletes why not BTS. They did more than them. BTS had put Korea in the map they had received so many awards recognized and known globally. Wouldn't they also deserve an exemption.

[@liyla5901]

What an interesting discussion!! I'm excited for Part 2! ^.^

[@heysilly1341]

I love that you bring these interesting topics to our attention

[@jo.xyzz_]

OMG I CANT WAIT FOR PART 2

[@a.bstractly]

Just here to say your friend sounds like such a genuinely nice guy and I can’t wait for part 2 😊

[@peppapig5298]

But it felt like you were sort of not caring/making fun of the soldiers when you kept smiling

[@empanadani]

Kelsey laughed a lot when they were talking about the high number of suicide in Korea. That was kinda weird?

[@raheedd4666]

I mean it might from the shock or just not knowing what to say

[@hlahla6964]

prolly cuz it's crazy

[@fairyfathom]

It was a 'this is ridiculous' laugh not a 'this is funny' laugh

[@sastov1681]

I know no country's military is perfect, but to me this seems like a ticking time bomb. What of soldier moral? Should the world implode and war break out, seems like that moral would be fairly low. That is not a great place to be when at war. I can't wrap my mind around that there is not a system in place to deal with toxic leadership. I also can't help but wonder that doing two years, and not ever training again leaves the military prepared. If that is the majority make up, then that still seems to be a relatively inexperienced military, personnel wise as a whole. What percentage of the SK armed forces are career soldiers?

[@bori4355]

In Mexico, military service is only necessary if you want to work for the government in the future. But they treat you like trash, the instructors just call you names, call you an idiot, a monkey, a little girl, treat fat/unfit people like they're a joke and worthless. My friend told me in one of their workouts, they had to hang upside down from a tree while the instructor would hit you while saying you're a monkey. They make you run on sand in the middle of the heat without stopping, some would pass out. All in all, it's a horrible experience, but everyone knows it and just finds that treatment there normal, that is why most people don't actually do their military service here. It also last two years.

[@sugakookie7985]

The military may get a surprise that forcing BTS into this wasn't the wisest move since they will be the ones to speak out against abuse they suffered and witnessed.

[@tinawalker6770]

Wow that is terrible and sad that a female officer had to commit suicide for being sexually harassed and rape. Well I guessed everyone is different and not strong or brave but I wouldn't have committed suicide. If I did, I was going to make sure that senior escorts me cause I was not going to meet our ancestors by myself. This is how I feel.

[@burraprasanth3319]

I feel bad for them. Hope they make them join out of their own interest instead of mandatory recruitment. And also verbal abuse in military is common in many countries, where they say that it will test them. But only who are prepared for such things will join military. Otherwise weak hearted will do such things like suicide.

[@두비두밥-p8d]

As a male who has been in the military (in Korea), I don't think it's that bad honestly. There were bullies, or more like 꼰대s but people normally just don't really care about them. Serious harrassing and bullying almost never happens. I've never seen a serious incident happening myself. And honestly, I think the hierarchy kind of helps. It might be a different point of view, but because Korea is in a very risky place, with China, North Korea and Japan, and also because Russia and China started training together for who knows what, it's really improtant that Koreans don't slack off and keep things together. And hierarchy comes in real handy here. Some cultures think of this hierarchy thing as a "bad" thing, but I think it's honestly helpful in militaries at least. The thing I struggled the most in military was just the heaps of moving about and waking up early.

[@mesyazaable]

Oh you're Korean man. If you don't mind me asking, does celebrities/K-pop idols got special treatment or do they get treated like ordinary people?

[@두비두밥-p8d]

@@mesyazaable I haven't met any celebs in military. I heard most of them go to parts related to music, unless they're really passionate. Military is real difficult, all of them, but the music section is probably less of physical activities. I'm not sure how they're treated tho.

[@ums2579]

Come on haha. I know It depends on when did you join the army and what kind of culture that you had in your base, but there were still a lot of violence in the military in South Korea. I was discharged from the military(Auxiliary Police) in 2004. DP is a piece of cake. Three people suicided just only in my base in three months. You would be tortured in so many different ways. Getting punched in the face was just a normal thing and I will tell you a one example which we had experienced in the base. There were a culture named ‘GAS(lighting)’. If your senior starts to gaslight you(there are no reasons), you can’t drink, sleep and go to the bathroom for a day or over the next few days. They will stay beside you and stare at you for 24 hours and enjoy while you feel a lot of pain. They give you a lot of water and food early in the morning, and you must to eat and drink all of that. The pain starts from now. You can’t go to the bathroom and drink anything for a whole day which is so painful and if you say something that you feel pain, they will swear and slap your face until you say sorry. The most fuxking part is when your eyelids grow heavy in the middle of the night and feel so much pain in your stomach, your senior will stare at you and slap your face whenever you try to close your eyes until tomorrow. This was just a one normal example of the culture in my base. If I have to explain what kind of shits all we had, you are really going to feel sick.

[@ums2579]

You can go to the link which shows Auxiliary policeman getting punched to his senior in 2008. The brief video was just an everyday life when I was in the base in South Korea. This was how Korean soldier was treated and everyone was educated from a corporal punishment in the school every day.

[@ums2579]

1. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aWe7gGCJZp5mgLs 2. kzbin.info/www/bejne/eKfClWmiltSrsK8 3. kzbin.info/www/bejne/jKS3d5uOitylr5o 4.kzbin.info/www/bejne/jGq9opVmfMynp5o

[@monicaesp6617]

Why do you laugh or smile at things that are serious or unpleasant? I mean, I don't get it...

[@csoniah4432]

People respond to situations differently to me her smile was of shock i have this type of response when I can't believe what I'm hearing or when is too crazy.