South Korea is considering expanding mandatory military conscription to include North Korean defectors and orphans, as the country grapples with growing manpower shortages.
In a 2021 policy study report released for the first time earlier this month, the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) indicated that it is exploring the possibility due to the impact of record-low birthrates on the country’s armed forces.
South Korea is considering expanding mandatory military conscription to include North Korean defectors and orphans, as the country grapples with growing manpower shortages.
In a 2021 policy study report released for the first time earlier this month, the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) indicated that it is exploring the possibility due to the impact of record-low birthrates on the country’s armed forces.
Try unlimited access
Only $1 for four weeks
-
Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations,
analysis
-
Year-one discount if you continue past $1 trial period
-
The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in
the loop
-
Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
-
Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting,
investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe
now
All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.