South Korean authorities have allowed K-pop stars to receive a deferment from military service. BTS will now be able to maintain their lineup for another two years.

South Korea's parliament has approved a bill allowing K-pop stars to receive a deferment from military service.

In South Korea, military service is compulsory for all males between the ages of 18 and 28. Under the previous law, exceptions were allowed only for famous actors, athletes and classical musicians - they were allowed to defer service for up to 30 years.

The new amendments allow for a reprieve of up to 30 years for pop artists who have "succeeded in popular culture and art." The postponement will be given on the recommendation of the Minister of Culture.

• Thanks to the amendments, the K-pop group BTS will be able to maintain its lineup for the next two years. The oldest of its participants will turn 28 on December 4; under the old rules, he was required to enlist in the army before the end of the year - now he can get a deferment.
• In September, BTS became the first K-pop act to have a song top the US Billboard 100 singles chart. In late November, BTS received a Grammy nomination, also a first for a Korean artist.