For most South Korean men, serving in the military is mandatory since the country remains technically at war with North Korea. The service lasts 18 to 21 months depending on the branch. The weight of this duty is real: draft evasion is punishable by up to three years in prison and those who try to avoid service can face arrest and strong social criticism. Still, most Korean men carry their responsibility, pausing their studies or careers, stepping away from family, friends and daily life to serve. For many Korean men, enlistment is a milestone as significant as college or a first job, carrying sacrifice, duty and pride all at once.