In South Korea, certain companies may be certified to employ eligible personnel who fulfill mandatory military service through alternative service in civilian roles. This post explains what a Military Service Designated Company (병역지정업체) is, who qualifies, and what the certification signals.
What is a Military Designated Company?
A Military Service Designated Company is approved by the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) to host conscripts in approved alternative programs—most commonly the Industrial Technical Personnel (산업기능요원) and Specialist Research Personnel (전문연구요원) tracks—so they can serve in roles that support national industry and R&D.
Who can receive this certification?
- Corporate Research Institutes (전담부서/연구소): Independent research facilities and a qualified research staff (e.g., master’s degree holders in natural sciences/engineering), with lower researcher headcount thresholds for SMEs.
- Industrial Companies in Core Sectors: Small, medium, or mid-sized firms in manufacturing/IT with a minimum number of full-time employees, proven production/sales records, and dedicated facilities (separate from other companies).
Eligibility focuses on verifiable infrastructure, staffing, and track record, and approval is at MMA’s discretion following document review and, where applicable, on-site assessment.
What does the certification indicate about the business?
Designation indicates the company meets government standards for infrastructure, research/technical capability, workforce quality, and compliance. It also confirms the firm’s participation in a public program that aligns talent with priority industrial and research activities, enhancing competitiveness while maintaining regulatory oversight (quota management, role suitability, and reporting obligations).
Coverage in KOBDi: The KOBDi database includes companies certified as Military Service Designated Companies (병역지정업체). This information appears on each Business Profile page, and certified companies can be found via the KOBDi Korea Industry Search.