South Korea has a Generation Z problem: the number of soldiers returning with another face after medical leave has surged

More South Korean soldiers are using leave to get cosmetic surgery, then returning with post-op swelling or restrictions.

Those recovery limits can keep them off guard duty, training, and physical tasks, forcing commanders to reshuffle assignments.

The military has no clear policy for elective surgery during service, creating a gap in rules and readiness management.

The trend reflects how South Korea’s beauty culture is increasingly affecting even military life.