South Korean badminton mixed doubles star Kim Won Ho shared in an interview that he will soon enlist, which means he must withdraw from the upcoming Japan and China Masters tournaments, as well as the BWF World Tour Finals.
Kim Won Ho stated, “I will begin a three-week short-term military training next week, so I had to withdraw from the Japan and China Masters tournaments. This week’s men’s doubles match will likely be my last match this year. Although I could still compete in the year-end finals after training, my shoulder and other injuries make it difficult, so I’ll likely skip the December finals. Regarding next year’s season, it’s still uncertain whether I’ll compete in multiple events or focus on a single one. I’ll decide later on.”
The South Korean pair Kim Won Ho / Jeong Na Eun surprised fans by reaching the finals in mixed doubles at this year’s Paris Olympics, ultimately winning the silver medal. Kim Won Ho has also competed in men’s doubles internationally.
In South Korea, military service is mandatory, requiring male citizens aged 18 to 35 to serve. The service period varies by military branch, though it generally lasts 18 to 23 months.
Under South Korea’s Military Service Act, individuals with exceptional talent in arts and sports who achieve top rankings in international competitions may qualify for “military service exemptions,” serving in a special capacity instead. This includes those who win top two positions in international arts competitions, first place in national arts competitions (restricted to fields unique to Korea), or who are recognized as national intangible cultural heritage educators with five years of experience. Athletes who achieve top three positions in the Olympics or first place in the Asian Games may also qualify.
Although Kim Won Ho earned Olympic bronze in mixed doubles, exempting him from full military service, he still has to complete a short-term military training period.
