The Military Manpower Administration announced today (19th) that from next year, it will select general air force soldiers through a random computerized draw system. Currently, general air force soldiers are selected based on high scores by combining qualifications and license points, but starting from the application in April next year, the selection method will be changed to the so-called “bingo system,” which is a random computerized selection. Unlike specialized technical soldiers or specialized service soldiers that require specific skills, the recruitment method for general air force soldiers allows applicants to apply regardless of their qualifications, licenses, or majors. However, due to the perception of relatively better working conditions, there have been adverse effects, such as applicants obtaining certificates and accruing blood donation or volunteer hours to gain extra points. To address this, the selection method is being changed to a draw.
A representative from the Military Manpower Administration explained that the selection method was improved to resolve the issue of recruitment being concentrated in certain branches and to reduce the burden on applicants. The selection cycle will also be changed from a monthly selection with enlistment three months later to twice a year selection with enlistment the following year. However, even if applicants are not selected in the draw, they can apply multiple times. The recruitment of specialized technical soldiers and specialized service soldiers in the air force will continue to be based on high scores combining qualifications and license points, and the monthly recruitment cycle will be maintained.
From next year, the random computerized draw method will be implemented first for the recruitment of general air force soldiers, and from the year after next, the same method will be applied to the recruitment of general navy and marine soldiers. Additionally, the Military Manpower Administration plans to abolish the high school attendance score consideration in all military recruitment and will also eliminate the interview evaluation for all branches except for some specialized service soldiers like JSA guards and honor guards.
[Photo Source: Yonhap News / Provided by the Military Manpower Administration]