The Power Sustaining the Community, the Value of Military Service [fn Contribution]

[Financial News] 

The right without responsibility is like faded honor. True social leaders and public figures must bear the social responsibility that comes with enjoying their rights. Among these social responsibilities, one of the most important elements is military service. Therefore, there should be no exceptions to military service, and there needs to be an atmosphere that respects the value of military service and establishes it as an important social virtue. To achieve this, especially those with significant social influence must strive to exemplarily fulfill their responsibilities and duties.

In the past, Roman Empire nobles were the first to go to the battlefield when war broke out, considering the rights they enjoyed as Roman citizens as a reward for fulfilling social obligations. Nobility was not just a privilege but a source of pride to serve society. They embodied the spirit of 'Noblesse Oblige,' which means 'nobility obliges.'

There are many examples in our history where this spirit was practiced. During the Silla Dynasty, the Hwarang were composed of young leaders who fought at the forefront when the nation was in crisis. During the Japanese occupation, patriots like Ahn Jung-geun and Lee Hoe-young dedicated their lives and wealth to the country. For them, sacrifice and dedication were not just choices but matters of responsibility and honor. This spirit of Noblesse Oblige can also be found in today's value of military service.

Since 2017, the Military Manpower Administration has been operating a 'Separate Military Record Management System' to thoroughly manage the military service process of individuals who receive social attention. This system transparently inspects the military service process for high-ranking officials and their children, athletes, popular culture artists, and high-income earners to enhance fairness. Additionally, the 'Military Service Disclosure Act,' enacted in 1999, increases social trust by disclosing the military service status of high-ranking officials and their children to the public.

Thanks to these efforts, the culture of military service in our society is gradually changing. The military service rate of public officials and others is steadily increasing, and especially in the broadcasting industry, whether one has completed military service has become an important criterion for evaluating individuals. The expression 'military-served entertainer' has emerged, creating a social atmosphere where those who faithfully perform military service receive positive evaluations.

Military service is not just a duty but an important value that our community must protect together. Especially when high-ranking officials, their children, and celebrities take the lead, their exemplary attitude serves as a model for many people and contributes to enhancing the pride of fulfilling military service. Willingly accepting and faithfully performing military service is a true expression of honor and pride. When all citizens respect the value of military service and honor faithful military service, we can move towards a stronger and prouder society. The dedication and sacrifice of military service are values that transcend time. True honor comes from fulfilling responsibilities.

Compiled by=rainman@fnnews.com Kim Kyung-soo, Reporter