BTS - V
Defense Ministry responds to accusations of favoritism surrounding V.
On November 20, a complaint was filed against BTS member V on an online community, accusing him of obtaining favoritism within the military, including the ability to use a cell phone. The complaint also raised concerns about whether V’s celebrity status led to the favoritism or whether his superiors knowingly allowed such behavior.
Following this, in its statement, the Ministry of Defense clarified that V used his phone during a time designated by the training center’s general policies. It explained that the military training center allows trainees to use their phones for one hour on weekends and holidays. V’s phone use allegedly occurred during a permitted time in the afternoon, not in the early hours of the morning.
“There is no evidence that V was granted special permission to use his phone outside of the designated time or that such action was condoned. Details about the specific timing, method, or content of the conversations cannot be disclosed due to the Personal Information Protection Act and the Communications Secrets Protection Act.”
This controversy gained momentum after Min Hee Jin, who works for Hybe, mentioned V during her appearance on Kim Young Dae’s YouTube channel School of Music, hosted by music critic Kim Young Dae.
During the interview, Min Hee Jin stated that V would occasionally call her during his military service, describing him as a cheerful and kind person. She also revealed that V sent her a birthday message early in the morning shortly after he enlisted, expressing his gratitude and affection for her.
After the interview, several netizens brought up the fact that V enlisted on December 11 and that Min Hee Jin’s birthday was on December 16. They wondered how V, only five days into his service, could send a message so early in the morning? Sparking allegations of favoritism within the military.
The response from the Ministry of the Armed Forces potentially addressed the claims, but discussions within communities continue to take place.
Journalist: Shawn
Translator: Shawn
Source: Ministère de la défense Website
