Enlisting Female Conscription is Now Discussed in Korea
In a significant development, South Korea's current Minister of Defense, Ahn Gyu-back, nominated on June 23, 2025, has been discussing the introduction of conscription for women. This would mark a departure from the current system, as Ahn Gyu-back would be the first civilian defense minister since 1961.
Recently, 487 new sergeants were inducted at the Army NCO Academy in Iksan, North Jeolla, in August 2021. Among these new recruits, 402 were women, all of whom were volunteers. The growing calls for conscription for women are fueled by declining resources, as the country seeks to maintain its military strength.
The article, originally written in Korean and translated with the help of AI tools, was reviewed and refined by a native English-speaking editor and was further edited by a newsroom. It discusses the induction ceremony of these new sergeants at the Army NCO Academy, highlighting the potential implications of the ongoing discussions regarding women's conscription.
The article was written by a bilingual reporter, ensuring the accuracy and faithfulness of the information presented. The induction of these new sergeants, both men and women, is a testament to the commitment of the South Korean military to maintaining its strength and readiness in the face of evolving challenges.
