[Photo] Defense Ministry causes controversy on issue of conscientious objectors

The Ministry of National Defense (MND) is evaluating a measure to outsource the evaluation of applicants for alternative military service, although the panel will be directly under the MND’s control. The measure is expected to spark controversy as civic groups have demanded the establishment of an independent entity for screening applicants for conscientious objection. The MND considered placing the evaluating body under the Office for Government Policy Coordination Prime Minister's Secretariat, but ultimately determined that an entity dealing with military service needed to be placed under the MND. The period for alternative service has been set at 36 months, twice the length of regular military service, which is likely to spark criticism of “punitive alternative service.” The photo shows civic demonstrators demanding a revision of the measure outside the MND in Seoul on Nov. 5.