In order to decide whether to give the K-pop boy band BTS an exemption from required military duty, the South Korean defence ministry may opt to hold a public survey.

The group has been in the headlines for a long time since the nation’s defences against North Korea call for all physically fit guys between the ages of 18 and 28 to serve in the military for over two years.

The South Korean government approved a measure in 2020 that would allow well-known K-pop artists like BTS to postpone national service until they are 30 years old.

The eldest band member, Jin, will be 30 in December and is already facing conscription. Lee Jong-sup, the minister of defence, has directed staff to determine if a public poll is necessary to inform the choice. The ministry will also look into a number of other aspects, including the economic impact of BTS, the value of military service, and the overall national interest, according to Mr. Lee. Athletes, classical and traditional musicians, as well as ballet and other dancers who rank first in particular events are already exempt from the conscription system in South Korea since they are seen as having increased national status.

Fans and even some lawmakers have called for the scope to include K-pop artists like BTS since they have greatly increased the nation’s profile overseas.

BTS, the biggest-selling musical act in South Korean history, was founded in 2010 and their first song was published in 2013. They are known across the world for their self-produced music and activism.

They had a meeting with US President Joe Biden in May at the White House to talk about Asian inclusion and representation as well as how to deal with hate crimes against Asians.

In addition, they have received numerous nominations and awards from events like the Grammys and the Brit Awards. In 2021, they were named the global recording artist of the year by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry, making history by becoming the first group to receive the glory twice.

They became the first Korean act to perform at Wembley Stadium in 2019, and their opening night sold out in under 90 minutes.

About 60% of respondents to a private survey conducted earlier this year backed an exception for the band’s members. In contrast, a prior private study conducted in 2020 found that 46% supported exemptions while 48% opposed them. BTS stated that they were not on sabbatical but were taking time to consider solo projects in a June announcement. Earlier in the same month, the group—J-Hope, Suga, Jungkook, V, RM, Jimin, and Jin—released the compilation album Proof.