Gladbach star could face military service for South Korea

Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Jens Castrop may have to put his club career on hold at some point.

Born in Germany to a German father and a South Korean mother, the 22-year-old switched his international allegiance to South Korea in August.

As a result, he could face a call-up for mandatory military service in South Korea, according to Bild.

“I’m in discussions with my management about it. But for now, I’m just excited to be a national team player. We’ll take the rest step by step,” Castrop said.

Able-bodied men in South Korea are required to serve 18 to 21 months in the military. Exceptions, like the one granted to Son Heung-min after helping South Korea win the Asian Games, are rare.