Does Faker Have to Do Military Service?
Lee "Faker" Sang-hyeok, the renowned Korean professional League of Legends player, is known for his incredible skills and impressive career achievements. With multiple World Championship titles and MVP awards under his belt, Faker is widely regarded as one of the greatest esports players of all time. However, a question that often arises among fans and followers is whether Faker has to do military service. In this article, we’ll delve into the topic and provide a comprehensive answer.
Military Service in South Korea
In South Korea, military service is mandatory for all able-bodied males, including professional athletes like Faker. The Military Service Act of 1957 requires all Korean men to serve in the military for approximately 18-21 months, unless they are exempt or defer their service.
Exemptions and Deferment
While military service is mandatory, there are certain exceptions and deferment options available. For example:
• Athletes with International Competition Commitments: According to the Korean Ministry of National Defense, athletes who are competing in international competitions can be exempt from military service for a limited period.
• Academics and Researchers: Individuals who are pursuing advanced degrees or conducting research in certain fields can be granted a deferment of up to 2 years.
• Business Owners and Entrepreneurs: Business owners and entrepreneurs who are deemed to be contributing significantly to the national economy can be exempt or granted a deferment.
Faker’s Situation
So, does Faker have to do military service? According to his management agency, Kingzone DragonX, Faker has been granted an exemption from military service due to his international competition commitments as a professional esports player. This exemption allows him to focus on his career without having to serve in the military.
Table: Comparison of Military Service Exemptions
| Category | Eligibility | Exemption/Deferment |
|---|---|---|
| International Competition Commitments | Athletes competing in international competitions | Up to 2 years |
| Academics and Researchers | Pursuing advanced degrees or conducting research in certain fields | Up to 2 years |
| Business Owners and Entrepreneurs | Contributing significantly to the national economy | Exemption or deferment |
| Esports Players | Competing in international esports competitions | Exemption (Faker’s case) |
Impact on Korean Esports
Faker’s exemption from military service has sparked debate among Korean fans and esports enthusiasts. Some argue that it is unfair for professional athletes like Faker to be exempt from military service, while others believe that it is a necessary exception to allow athletes to focus on their careers and contribute to the country’s reputation in international competitions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Faker has been granted an exemption from military service due to his international competition commitments as a professional esports player. This exemption allows him to focus on his career without having to serve in the military. While there are certain exceptions and deferment options available, Faker’s situation is unique and reflects the importance of esports in South Korea.
Additional Notes
• Faker’s exemption has raised questions about the treatment of esports athletes in Korea, with some calling for a more comprehensive exemption policy.
• The Korean government has been actively promoting esports as a national sport, with the aim of boosting the country’s international reputation and economic growth.
• The exemption policy for esports athletes is expected to be revised in the future, potentially allowing more athletes to compete internationally without being drafted into the military.
As Faker continues to dominate the League of Legends scene, his exemption from military service has become a topic of discussion among fans and esports enthusiasts. While the debate surrounding military service exemptions continues, one thing is clear: Faker’s exemption is a testament to the growing recognition of esports as a legitimate and important part of Korean culture and society.
