The K-pop world was abuzz after photos of EXO’s Kai enjoying a vacation in Bali surfaced online, sparking a lively debate among fans regarding the rules surrounding military service.
Fans were surprised to see Kai, who is still serving in the military, reportedly spending time in Bali. The photos and videos shared online fueled speculation and discussions on whether Kai was permitted to leave the country while enlisted as a public service worker.
Under South Korea’s military service law, male citizens are obligated to serve their nation before turning 28. However, exemptions exist for individuals who have made significant contributions to South Korea’s prestige, although only the “BTS Law” was passed, allowing certain idols to delay their enlistment until the age of 30.
Kai, having turned 30 (Korean age) in January 2023, entered the military unconditionally in May of the same year.
Before starting military service, idols are typically restricted from leaving the country or engaging in international activities, leading to confusion among fans regarding Kai’s Bali vacation.
Fans outside of EXO-Ls expressed disbelief and frustration, labelling the situation as “unfair” compared to other idols and citizens serving in the military.
In response to the backlash, EXO-Ls swiftly came to Kai’s defence. They explained that Kai had received a day off from military duties, allowing him to leave the camp with proper permission from his superiors, including authorization for international travel.
EXO-Ls criticized those who attacked Kai, highlighting that he followed official procedures and had documented permission for his vacation in Bali.
Kai is expected to continue his service as a public service worker for approximately one more year and is anticipated to be discharged around February 2025.
The debate surrounding Kai’s Bali vacation sheds light on the complexities of military service regulations in South Korea and underscores the importance of understanding the allowances and permissions granted to public service workers like idols serving in the military.