Na In-woo says the reason for his military exemption is a 'private matter'
South Korean actor Na In-woo has addressed the recent news about his military exemption, saying he chooses to remain silent on the issue as "it' is a private matter."
At the Motel California press conference, In-woo addressed his military service exemption, offering an apology to the drama team beforehand.
"First and foremost, I would like to apologize to my drama team for talking about a personal topic at this press event," he said.
He stated that he became aware of his complete exemption from mandatory service while in the midst of filming and was therefore required to make a "fast" decision.
"If I may share, the news broke while I was in the middle of filming. I received a call after the filming ended, late at night when my mind was still elsewhere. Because it is a very sensitive topic, I had to make a decision, fast. In the end, I chose silence," In Woo said.
He feels that "many people loved the bright and positive side" of him so he did not want to show his "weaker side."
"I think I may have tried to act brighter because of that," In Woo added.
He asks for understanding as he wishes not to reveal his illness.
"I do not wish to reveal the name of my illness. It is a private matter. But I spoke as honestly as I could in the hopes that people will see the situation as it is," the Marry My Husband star said.
In December of last year, In-woo received a reservist status after his physical examination but was not summoned for alternative service within the required three years. This exemption applies to South Korean men classified as Grade 4, meaning they are not fit for active duty, and who are not called up within the timeframe.
In the past, other Korean actors were also exempted from military service due to unfortunate accidents, failure to meet requirements, and other reasons.
These include Black Knight actor Kim Woo-bin, who was diagnosed with nasopharyngeal cancer in 2017; A Time Called You actor Ahn Hyo Seop, who was exempted due to his Canadian citizenship; Winter Sonata actor Bae Yong Joon, who didn't meet the standards required for eyesight, Hellbound actor Yoo Ah-in who failed multiple medical examinations to test his ability to serve due to brain tumor, and The Killing Vote actor Park Hae-jin who received an exemption in 2004 for a mental disorder, to name a few.
In 2024, around 10,000 individuals received the same exemption due to limited public service positions.
