'I'm not going to the military': Asian Games celebration triggers backlash and exemption review

The South Korean government is set to review military exemptions granted to elite athletes following the national football team's triumph at the Asian Games.

There has been huge backlash against three players' over-zealous celebrations after the final whistle, which suggested they were seemingly more excited about avoiding military service than winning gold.

As it stands, South Korean men are required to complete between 18 and 21 months of active military service before the age of 28, but elite athletes can receive an exemption if they win an Olympic medal or gold at the Asian Games.

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This policy was already set to be reviewed by South Korea's Ministry of National Defence, but the outburst could accelerate changes, with Culture, Sports and Tourism Minister Choi Hwi-young saying the system will be reviewed.

South Korea defeated Japan 1-0 on 3 October to secure their fourth straight Asian Games title, but the drama intensified after the final whistle.

Captain Lee Gi-hyuk sparked the outcry when he triumphantly announced he was "not going to the military" during a post-match interview.

The South Korean skipper was soon joined in his celebration by teammates Yang Min-hyuk and Park Seung-soo.

Lee has since apologised, saying he "got caught up in the happiness, adrenaline and excitement of the moment".

However, the damage may have already been done, with the special sports exemptions looking set to be abolished.

Golfer Tom Kim, who also won gold at this year's Asian Games, was another topic of conversation after leaving the Presidents Cup in Medinah, Illinois, to compete in the Games.

Kim reportedly left Medinah Country Club before the competition ended on Sunday evening to compete in the Asian Games, less than 72 hours after defeating Wyndham Clark in the singles.

However, Kim made no such comments after sealing gold, saying: "I'm more proud that I'm able to bring a medal for my country. 

"I tried not to think about it. I just tried to play (the) best for my country. It's a big stepping stone. I think the pressure that I felt this week, I'll be able to implement it in my upcoming seasons."

It's not just athletes who are affected by mandatory military service, however.

K-pop band BTS reunited in June after a three-year hiatus, following all seven members completing their military service.

While celebrities are unable to receive exemptions, a 2020 amendment to the Military Service Act allows globally recognised pop-culture artists to defer their enlistment until they are 30 if recommended by the Culture Minister.