Taiwanese society has been plunged into a state of shock and indignation as several high-profile celebrities have been apprehended for evading mandatory military service. Public discourse has turned sharply toward South Korea, with media outlets and netizens urging local stars to "follow the example of K-pop giants BTS."
The Arrest of Chiu Sheng-yi
According to reports from TVBS, The Taipei Times, and ET Today, popular singer and actor Chiu Sheng-yi (36), a former idol group member, was arrested on April 1, 2026, on charges of draft evasion.
Chiu was apprehended at his residence and transported in handcuffs to a police station in New Taipei City for questioning. During the investigation, Chiu reportedly admitted to paying between 300,000 and 400,000 TWD ($9,300 – $12,400 USD) to obtain forged medical certificates for hypertension to avoid his military obligations.
The New Taipei Prosecutor’s Office has since launched a massive crackdown, leading to the arrest of approximately ten additional individuals connected to the scheme.
A Growing List of Offenders
This latest scandal is an extension of a larger investigation that began last year. In June 2025, Taiwanese prosecutors indicted 28 individuals, including:
High-profile actors: Darren Wang (Wang Talu) and Chen Bo-lin.
Professionals: Famous chefs, music producers, businessmen, and doctors.
Brokers: Four individuals accused of facilitating the illegal exemptions.
Investigation records show that some suspects paid brokers as much as 300,000 TWD to fabricate medical histories. This follows a string of similar arrests last year involving actors Xiu Jie-kai and members of the groups Energy and Lollipop.
The "BTS Effect": Taiwan Looks to Korea
As the scandals unfold, the Taiwanese media has drawn stark comparisons between local celebrities and South Korean stars. Significant emphasis has been placed on the fact that members of global sensations BTS and EXO fulfilled their military duties despite their immense international fame.
Netizen Reactions in Taiwan:
"Even world-class stars like BTS went to the army. Our stars have no excuse."
"We need to learn from the South Korean model."
"Why has Taiwan been so lenient regarding military service evasion?"
Local media outlets highlighted that BTS’s popularity actually increased following their service, a point that has resonated deeply with the Taiwanese public. Online forums are filled with comments suggesting that "Taiwanese society needs this level of accountability to thrive."
The BTS Timeline
The comparison is particularly timely given BTS's recent history. The group began their staggered enlistment in December 2022, starting with the eldest member, Jin. By June 2025, all members—including RM, V, Jimin, Jungkook, and Suga—had successfully completed their service and returned to civilian life, setting a precedent for "duty-first" stardom.
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