South Korea’s Ministry of National Defense says it will reduce and then abolish the supplementary civic service system.

The programme lets some conscripts serve in civilian roles instead of active military duty. The ministry now plans to phase it out entirely.

The Star reported that the country will phase out supplementary military service. The change follows years of debate about fairness in the draft system.

South Korea requires most able-bodied men to serve in the military. Alternative service options have long been a point of contention.

Officials have not given a final date for the abolition. The move will reshape how the country staffs its civilian service posts in the years ahead.

The supplementary service system dates back decades in South Korea. Reformers say it is unfair that some conscripts serve in offices while others face front-line duty. The phase-out will take years to complete. Officials must find new ways to staff civilian posts. The change marks a major shift in how the country handles conscription.