Gay marriages in the South Korean army remain illegal: authorities decide

South Korea’s Constitutional Court has expressed support for a law banning same-sex relationships in the military, although activists say the law violates the rights of members of the LGBT community.

The court’s decision is that same-sex relationships, according to the law, can be considered an obstacle to military readiness and a violation of discipline in the South Korean army. At the same time, sexual relations between civilians are not recognized as a crime.

Controversies in South Korea: LGBT activists’ response to mandatory military service and the ban on same-sex relationships

It is important to note that South Korea has compulsory military service for all eligible men between the ages of 18 and 28, and the duration of service is approximately 20 months.

LGBT activists sharply condemned this decision, considering it a provocation of violence and discrimination against gay soldiers. They stressed that the ban on same-sex relationships “institutionalizes discrimination” and reinforces the disadvantages faced by LGBT people, both in the military and in everyday life.

Since 2002, this marks the fourth occasion when the court has affirmed a legislation that imposes a potential two-year imprisonment for individuals engaged in same-sex relationships.

Meanwhile, in parts of the world such as Vienna and Istanbul, authorities continue to combat threats and violence against the LGBT community, taking measures to prevent incidents at LGBT parades and ensure the safety of participants and activists.

Debate around the ban on same-sex relationships in the South Korean army: balancing discipline and LGBT rights

Let’s remember: The law prohibiting same-sex relationships in the army was introduced in South Korea in 1962, and since then it has remained in force. LGBT rights activists and advocates say the law goes against basic principles of equality and discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Supporters of the law argue that it is necessary to maintain discipline and order in the military, and that same-sex relationships could create problems in the military. However, its critics argue that such a ban leads to stigmatization and discrimination against LGBT soldiers and violates their rights to privacy and equality before the law.

Despite the Constitutional Court’s decision, debate continues on the topic, with many hoping for changes to the law in the future to ensure the rights of LGBT soldiers are protected and the ban on same-sex relationships in the South Korean military is lifted.

It’s worth mentioning that in recent times, there has been a growing global backing for LGBT rights, potentially exerting pressure on South Korean authorities to reconsider their stance on these policies.

Positive examples and successes in other countries where LGBT soldiers already have rights and recognition serve as inspiration for efforts in South Korea. The fight for equal rights will continue, and many believe in a future where LGBT soldiers have the same rights and opportunities as their fellow soldiers.