Transgender Discharged from Military Service After Undergoing Gender Reassignment Surgery, Wishes to Continue Serving as a Soldier in South Korea

Kapanlagi.com - The name Byun Hui Soo suddenly became a hot topic in the Korean media. They are a transgender individual who was discharged from the Korean military, as reported by Allkpop.

This sergeant traveled to Thailand in November 2019 to undergo gender reassignment surgery. They did this after experiencing depression due to their sexual identity.

Upon learning about Byun Hui Soo's actions, the Korean military decided to discharge them from their military service on Thursday (23/1/2020). However, this was not Byun Hui Soo's desire.

1. Considered Disabled

South Korean law does prohibit transgender individuals from joining the military. However, there has been no regulation prohibiting a soldier from undergoing gender reassignment while fulfilling military duty.

The South Korean military has regulations for the discharge or exemption of individuals with disabilities or mental disorders in performing their duties. In the case of Byun Hui Soo, they stated that the soldier is considered to lack physical and mental balance due to undergoing gender reassignment.

2. Confident in Becoming a Great Soldier

Many view this decision by the South Korean military as a form of discrimination. Especially since Byun Hui Soo openly expressed a desire to continue serving in the military because it is her dream.

"Regardless of my sexual identity, I can protect the nation as a great soldier for this country. And I want to show this to everyone. Please give me a chance. I am a soldier of South Korea," she said while saluting, as quoted from a video uploaded by QuickTake.

3. Will File a Lawsuit

Byun Hui Soo stated that he had the highest score in his unit when it comes to driving tanks. He feels that this is completely unfair.

"Human rights in the military, especially for social minorities, I believe there is no consideration at all," concluded Byun Hui Soo, who stated that he will file a litigation lawsuit to obtain his rights as a soldier in the military.

(kpl/pit)