1. Introduction to the text
South Korea’s mandatory military service has been a subject of ongoing debate and discussion within the country. With tensions remaining high on the Korean Peninsula, the government has maintained compulsory military service for able-bodied men as a means of national defense. However, this policy has faced criticism and calls for reform from various segments of society. This reading material delves into the historical context, current debates, and cultural implications surrounding this contentious issue.
2. Vocabulary
| Korean Word | Romanization | English Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 병역의무 | byeongyeok-ui-mu | Mandatory military service |
| 징병제 | jingbyeongjae | Conscription system |
| 병역기피 | byeongyeok-gipi | Draft evasion |
| 대체복무 | daechebokmu | Alternative service |
| 병역면제 | byeongyeok-myeonje | Military exemption |
| 인권침해 | ingwon-chimhae | Human rights violation |
| 국방력 | gukbangryeok | National defense capability |
| 남북대치 | nambuk-daechi | Inter-Korean confrontation |
| 평화통일 | pyeonghwa-tongil | Peaceful reunification |
| 형평성 | hyeongpyeongsong | Fairness |
3. The main text in both Korean and English
한국에서 병역의무는 오랫동안 논란의 대상이 되어왔습니다.
In South Korea, mandatory military service has been a subject of controversy for a long time.
1950년대 한국전쟁 이후, 남북 간의 대치 상황이 지속되면서 정부는 징병제를 도입했습니다.
After the Korean War in the 1950s, with the ongoing confrontation between the two Koreas, the government introduced a conscription system.
이는 국방력 강화와 전쟁 억제를 위한 조치였지만, 개인의 자유와 인권 침해 논란도 제기되었습니다.
This measure was taken to strengthen national defense capabilities and deter war, but it also raised concerns about individual freedom and human rights violations.
현재 대한민국 남성은 18세에서 28세 사이에 약 2년 동안 군 복무를 해야 합니다.
Currently, South Korean men are required to serve in the military for about two years between the ages of 18 and 28.
이러한 의무 복무 기간은 직장 생활과 교육에 지장을 초래하며, 개인의 선택권을 제한한다는 비판이 있습니다.
This mandatory service period is criticized for disrupting employment and education, as well as limiting individual choices.
일부 집단은 대체복무제나 병역면제 확대를 주장하고 있지만, 정부는 안보 위협을 이유로 현행 제도를 유지하고 있습니다.
Some groups advocate for alternative service options or expanded military exemptions, but the government maintains the current system, citing security threats.
반면, 징병제 지지자들은 형평성과 국가 안전 보장을 위해 필수적이라고 주장합니다.
On the other hand, supporters of conscription argue that it is essential for ensuring fairness and national security.
병역 기피 사례도 사회적 논란거리가 되고 있으며, 이는 부유층과 유명인에게 편파적이라는 지적을 받고 있습니다.
Cases of draft evasion have also become a subject of social controversy, with accusations of bias towards the wealthy and celebrities.
일각에서는 남북 관계 개선과 평화 정착을 통해 장기적으로 징병제를 폐지할 것을 주장하고 있습니다.
Some argue for the eventual abolition of conscription through improving inter-Korean relations and establishing peace on the peninsula.
4. Reading comprehension questions
1. 한국 정부가 징병제를 도입한 주된 이유는 무엇입니까?
What was the main reason for the South Korean government to introduce conscription?
2. 병역의무에 대한 주요 비판 중 하나는 무엇입니까?
What is one of the main criticisms against mandatory military service?
3. 대체복무제나 병역면제 확대에 대한 정부의 입장은 어떠합니까?
What is the government’s stance on alternative service options or expanded military exemptions?
4. 병역 기피 사례에 대해 어떤 지적이 있습니까?
What criticism has been raised regarding cases of draft evasion?
5. 징병제 폐지를 주장하는 이들의 주요 논거는 무엇입니까?
What is the main argument put forth by those advocating for the abolition of conscription?
5. Cultural and historical notes
South Korea’s mandatory military service policy has its roots in the aftermath of the Korean War (1950-1953). The division of the Korean Peninsula and the ongoing tensions with North Korea led to the establishment of a conscription system to maintain a strong military force. This system has been in place for decades and has become deeply ingrained in Korean society, with military service often seen as a rite of passage for young men.