Controversy surrounds K-pop band SEVENTEEN - Allegations of injuries to avoid military service spark online debate

On March 1, it was reported that S.Coups, a member of the K-pop boy band SEVENTEEN, has been granted exemption from the South Korean military service due to a knee injury sustained last year. PLEDIS Entertainment, the group's agency, confirmed the news on Friday, stating that the idol has been classified as Grade 5.

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While S.Coups' exemption was confirmed, other members such as Mingyu reportedly suffered from lower back pain, and Jeonghan went on hiatus in December after injuring his ankle and undergoing surgery. The occurrence of three members, nearing their enlistment age for the South Korean military service, getting injured sparked controversy online, with questions arising about whether these idols are purposefully avoiding enlistment.

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Regarding S.Coups, the agency stated, "Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery and anterolateral ligament reconstruction surgery on his left knee joint due to a rupture, S.Coups has been undergoing extensive physical rehabilitation since last year. As a result, he has been classified as Grade 5."

While Mingyu recovered and resumed his participation with the group, what exactly caught the attention of many online was that S.Coups and Jeonghan will take part in SEVENTEEN's 'Follow Again' tour in Incheon in March. The agency, however, was quick to clarify that S.Coups and Jeonghan's participation in certain stages or events may be limited to prevent straining their injured areas.

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However, it was not enough to calm netizens as it sparked anger among many, questioning why they could dance on stage but couldn't enlist. Some even referenced BTS' SUGA, who underwent shoulder surgery. The rapper had sustained an injury before his debut with the group due to an accident and dealt with the pain for years before finally getting the surgery just to enlist in the military service.

However, SEVENTEEN's fandom called 'Carats' has come to defend their Idol and many have stated that S.Coups has been missing from action for more than half a year and his injury is very severe for him to get the exemption.

SEVENTEEN's 'Follow Again' tour:

SEVENTEEN has announced their 'Follow Again' tour, which serves as the encore leg of their successful 'Follow' Asia tour. The 'Follow Again' tour will consist of six shows taking place in March and May 2024 in East Asian cities such as Incheon, Osaka, and Yokohama.

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These newly added shows come after the completion of the original 20-date 'Follow' tour across Asia which spanned from July 2023 to January 2024. The boy band delighted fans with concerts held in South Korea, Japan, Bangkok, the Philippines, and more.

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