World · Singapore Bureau
South Korean officer suspended for repeated unauthorised absences to care for pet
A South Korean army officer has been suspended after leaving his post more than 60 times over a ten-month period, citing the need to feed his pet lizard. The disciplinary action follows additional findings of misconduct including verbal abuse of subordinates.
LSN Singapore ·
The officer, whose name has not been disclosed, was found to have abandoned his duties on 64 separate occasions between January and October, according to military records. Military authorities confirmed that the stated reason for the frequent departures was to attend to his reptile pet at home.
The suspension represents one of the more unusual cases of military misconduct in recent South Korean armed forces history. Beyond the unauthorised absences, investigators determined that the officer had engaged in verbal abuse toward personnel under his command and had improperly delayed the processing of leave applications submitted by soldiers.
Military officials have not specified the duration of the suspension or whether further action will be taken against the officer. The case highlights ongoing concerns within South Korea's military regarding officer conduct and adherence to service protocols.
South Korea maintains one of the world's largest standing armies, with mandatory military service required for most able-bodied male citizens. Discipline and adherence to command structure remain central to military operations on the Korean peninsula, where tensions with North Korea persist.