South Korean captain Lee Gi‑hyuk has apologized for boasting about evading mandatory military service after his team’s gold‑medal win at the Asian Games.
His side defeated host Japan 1‑0 in the final, after which Lee raised his gold medal and announced that he would not be enlisting.
In a social media post reported by local media, the 26‑year‑old later said he was ‘deeply sorry to the fans who are currently fulfilling their military duty, as well as to all those who sincerely supported us’.
South Korean men are generally required to complete 18 to 21 months of active military service before turning 28.
Nevertheless, the government grants Asian Games champions and Olympic medalists of any discipline a service exemption, waiving basic training, which lasts less than a month.
Golfer Tom Kim likewise avoided conscription after securing gold at the Asian Games.
Other athletes who have obtained the exemption include former Tottenham footballer Son Heung‑min, who served only three weeks in 2020 after winning the Asian Games with South Korea two years prior.
“As an adult, I should have considered my words more carefully,” Lee said, noting that he was an overage player in his nation’s Under‑23 squad and currently plays for Gangwon FC in the K League.
“I deeply regret speaking so carelessly and will continue to reflect on my actions.”
“I sincerely apologize to all the fans who have wholeheartedly supported us and are doing their utmost to fulfill their military duty.”