Won Min-kyung, the nominee for Minister of Gender Equality and Family, said on the 3rd regarding the feasibility of implementing women's conscription, "It will not be easy in the near future."

On the 3rd, Nominee Won Min-kyeong, the Minister of Gender Equality and Family, responds to questions from lawmakers during the confirmation hearing at the Gender Equality and Family Committee of the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul. /Courtesy of News1

During a personnel hearing held by the Education Committee of the National Assembly that day, when lawmaker Seo Myung-ok of the People Power Party asked, 'Due to the low birthrate issue, the topic of women's military service is being discussed in some quarters. What is your personal stance on this?' Won responded accordingly.

The nominee noted, "While preparing for the personnel hearing, I reviewed various opinions and overseas cases regarding the volunteer system and conscription, and I believe this is an issue that must reach consensus after considering numerous bills, the current situation in Korea, and the environment of the Ministry of National Defense."

In response, Seo asked, 'If social consensus is reached, could it mean that women's conscription is possible?' to which Won replied, "It may not be easy in the near future." However, Won added, "Ultimately, it could be possible under a diversified military structure following the establishment of peace on the Korean Peninsula."

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