South Korean footballer Yang Hyun-jun will aim for gold at the upcoming Asian Games to secure an exemption from mandatory military service. The Celtic winger, aged 24, has been selected by South Korea’s head coach Lee Min-sung as one of three overage players for the tournament.

South Korea requires able-bodied men to complete compulsory military service, which can interrupt professional athletes’ careers. However, athletes who win a gold medal at the Olympic Games or Asian Games are granted exemptions. Yang, who has not yet fulfilled his military obligations, stands to avoid a lengthy service period if his team wins the tournament.

Lee Min-sung explained the rationale behind selecting Yang as an overage player, emphasizing tactical needs and experience. “The wildcard players were selected based on a comprehensive assessment of their tactical value, the need to reinforce weak positions, as well as their tournament experience and match management capabilities,” Lee said. “We have assembled the players who are currently the most competitive.”

Yang will miss part of the upcoming club season due to his national team duties, including Celtic’s first Old Firm derby scheduled for September. Despite this, the player is expected to be highly motivated to help South Korea defend its Asian Games gold medal and secure the military exemption that would allow him to continue his professional career without interruption.