In a candid revelation on his YouTube channel in 2022, Kim Jong-kook opened up about his military service issue, shedding light on his family’s background and the controversy surrounding his service.
It was revealed that Kim Jong-kook’s father, a veteran soldier who served for 23 years and participated in the Vietnam War, was entitled to a special military service benefit under current law. This benefit allowed one child of a man of national merit to serve as a public service worker for six months, irrespective of physical examination results.
Despite this provision, at the age of 20, Kim Jong-kook served as a public service worker due to a severe herniated disc. His decision sparked criticism, particularly due to his public image as a muscular and strong individual.
In response, Kim Jong-kook expressed his disappointment at the notion that military service should be a source of shame, emphasizing his family’s proud military history. He also recalled the severity of his medical condition, which necessitated his role as a public service worker.
While some fans offered understanding and support, citing his father’s dedication to the country, others remained sceptical, questioning the validity of Kim Jong-kook’s health condition given his physical appearance on television.
As Kim Jong-kook, now 44, reflects on this chapter of his life, his father, at 79, stands as a testament to their family’s legacy of service and sacrifice.
