SUGA’s Military Service Explained: Public Service, Training, and Responsibilities

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In 2019, BTS’s SUGA underwent surgery for a torn labrum in his left shoulder—a serious injury that had caused him pain for years. This medical condition likely contributed to his Grade 4 physical evaluation, which made him ineligible for active-duty military service and qualified him for public service instead.

Understanding South Korea’s Military Physical Grades

• Grade 1–3: Fit for active-duty service
• Grade 4: Limited duty; assigned to public service or non-combat roles
• Grade 5: Exempt from regular service but can be mobilized during war
• Grade 6: Fully exempt due to severe medical conditions

Did Public Service Mean No Military Training?

Not at all. Despite not serving on the front lines, public service workers like SUGA undergo basic training—including essential first aid, emergency response, and even modified physical drills.

First Aid Training for Public Service Workers

1. Basic Life Support (BLS)
   • CPR and breathing assessment
   • Responding to loss of consciousness
2. Bleeding Control
   • Applying pressure to wounds
   • Using tourniquets and bandages
3. Fracture and Sprain Care
   • Limb immobilization
   • Use of slings and splints
4. Burn and Shock Response
   • Cooling burns
   • Managing shock symptoms
5. Evacuation Techniques
   • Safely moving injured individuals
   • Knowing when to avoid moving someone

Public service workers often operate in schools or clinics—places where basic medical training can save lives.

De-escalation Training

Even in non-combat settings, workers are trained to manage potential threats until authorities arrive.

1. Identifying Escalating Behavior
   • Spotting warning signs
   • Recognizing vocal tone shifts
2. Verbal Techniques
   • Speaking calmly
   • Active listening and mirroring
3. Safety Protocols
   • Removing others from danger
   • Contacting emergency services quickly

Disaster Response Skills

Public service workers are prepared to act during natural disasters.

Training Includes:

• Rope knotting (Square Knot, Clove Hitch, etc.)
• Emergency evacuations
• Local emergency protocols
• Use of extinguishers, radios, and PA systems

These skills help them assist others first, placing their own safety last, as trained.

Communications & Signaling

Training emphasizes clear emergency communication:

• How to report location, type of emergency, and threats
• Directing responders efficiently
• Keeping calm under pressure

Emergency Contact Protocols

When assigned to isolated facilities (e.g., schools or libraries), workers are trained to:

• Calm crowds
• Coordinate evacuations
• Locate safe zones

Modified Physical and Military Training

SUGA likely underwent light physical activity, such as:

• Supervised cardio
• Basic marching and posture
• Rifle handling (basic familiarity only)

Mental training covered respect for rank, teamwork, and national defense structures.

Types of Military Service in Korea

1. Active-Duty Military (Hyun-yeok)
   • Roles: Infantry, Artillery, Medics, Mechanics, etc.
2. Public Service Worker (Sahoe Bokmu Yo-won)
   • Assigned due to health conditions. Roles:
     • Government office assistant
     • School/welfare center helper
     • Public health center support
     • IT/tech support (occasionally)
     • Facility maintenance
3. Conscientious Objector Service
   • For moral or religious objectors. Roles: prison support staff
4. Industrial Technical Personnel
   • Skilled conscripts work in private firms tied to national security
5. Research Personnel
   • PhD/Master’s researchers serving through science-related work
6. Firefighter & Police Auxiliary (being phased out)

Possible Jobs SUGA Might Have Done

1. Government Office Assistant
   • Tasks: Filing, phone handling, citizen support
2. School or Welfare Center Helper
   • Tasks: Assisting children, deliveries, elderly programs
3. Public Health Center Staff
   • Tasks: Directing visitors, organizing records, vaccine support
4. IT or Tech Support
   • Possible given his tech skills. Duties could include computer setups and troubleshooting
5. Facility Maintenance
   • Tasks: Cleaning, errands, restocking supplies

How Much Are Public Service Workers Paid?

Public service isn’t high-paying. It’s meant for fulfilling duty, not building savings.

• Pay Scale:
  • Starting: 600,000–700,000 KRW/month (~$450–$520 USD)
  • Max: Up to 1 million KRW/month (~$750 USD)
• Perks:
  • Free meals (in some posts)
  • Transit allowance
  • Completion bonus (₩10M–₩20M or ~$7K–$15K USD)

Though SUGA served in a public service role due to injury, his training was still intense and meaningful. From first aid to disaster response, public service workers like him are equipped with critical skills to support their communities—and uphold national duty in quieter, often overlooked ways.

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