'양심적 병역거부' 대체복무요원 63명, 오늘 첫 소집
The first batch of conscientious objectors... started their training for alternative military service on Monday... following a new law allowing those refusing to take up arms for religious reasons... to do other forms of service.
After three weeks of training, the 63 objectors will perform duties like supporting facility management at detention facilities.
While they do not receive basic military training, they will be given the same treatment as active-duty service members like monthly payment and vacations.
By law, all able-bodied South Korean men must serve in the military for around two years.
But the National Assembly passed a bill last December allowing conscientious objectors to do 36 months of alternative service at local correctional facilities.