Lee Holds Feb 5 Meeting With Top Scholars President Lee Jae Myung convened roughly 200 nationally‑scholarship undergraduates and graduate students, plus 35 Olympiad awardees, at Cheong Wa Dae on Feb 5 to discuss military service reform [1]. The gathering emphasized high‑performing talent as a focal point for policy changes. Participants were briefed on the administration’s intent to overhaul the conscription system. Lee framed the meeting as a step toward aligning national service with scientific advancement [1].

Mandatory Service Seen as Career Disruption Lee argued that compulsory enlistment forces young men into lengthy career breaks, generating frustration and hindering professional development [1]. He cited personal testimonies from scholars who experience “conflict and frustration” when forced to pause studies or research [1]. The president linked these disruptions to broader talent loss in South Korea’s high‑tech sectors [1].

Government Reviews Research‑During‑Service Options Responding to student suggestions, Lee confirmed the government is examining measures that would let conscripts conduct research projects while serving [1]. The proposal aims to transform service time into skill‑building rather than idle periods [1]. Officials are assessing how to integrate academic labs and defense R&D facilities into the conscription framework [1].

Proposal to Form Dedicated Military Research Units Lee floated establishing specialized research units within the armed forces to harness technical expertise in cutting‑edge technology and weapons systems [1]. These units would replace generic alternative service placements for scientists [1]. The plan seeks to modernize the military while retaining top scientific talent for national security purposes [1].

Broad Reform Agenda Emphasizes Tech Talent Retention Lee reiterated his intention to implement sweeping reforms across the military system, stressing that research‑oriented service options will help modernize the forces [1]. He highlighted the need to keep high‑performing scholars engaged in national projects rather than losing them to private sector or overseas opportunities [1]. The administration views the reforms as essential for maintaining South Korea’s competitive edge in technology [1].