Sexual orientation and gender identity in the South Korean military

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South Korea requires almost all able‑bodied men to do about two years of military service. Women can join if they want to, but service is mandatory for men. LGBTQ+ people in the military face discrimination and pressure to hide who they are.

In enlistment, some recruits are labeled with mental health or personality diagnoses, which can affect their duties and status. This can lead to harassment, being forced to reveal private information, or even being discharged.

A military law, Article 92-6, says same-sex acts are a form of sexual assault or harassment and can carry prison time. In 2022, the Supreme Court said this rule didn’t apply to consensual acts off duty, but in October 2023 the Constitutional Court overturned that decision, so the law can apply to military cases again. Activists say this is unconstitutional and violates privacy and personal identity. Some conservatives argue that loosening rules would threaten discipline and security.

The army’s medical exams have treated homosexuality and non‑cisgender identities as mental health issues. This affects who is considered fit for service. Transgender people face especially complicated rules. Trans men are often listed as disabled and may be deemed unfit; trans women can sometimes seek exemption, but getting legal gender changes is tough and costly. Some exemptions rely on medical diagnoses or specific medical procedures.

There have been many tough experiences for LGBTQ+ service members, including harassment and forced disclosure of sexual orientation. There have been high-profile cases and protests calling for change. In the past, there have been accusations of privacy violations and unfair punishment, such as in cases of sexual violence or “sodomy” charges. The military has also carried out crackdowns and charged many people in recent years.

Conscientious objection to military service is illegal in South Korea, and objectors can be imprisoned. LGBTQ+ groups and human rights groups continue to advocate for fair treatment and an end to discrimination in the armed forces.