MOI reviews 80 military evasion cases over five years

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of the Interior (MOI, 內政部) announced on Tuesday (Feb. 18) that they are examining approximately 80 similar cases of military evasion from the past five years.

The announcement comes after Taiwanese actor Darren Wang (王大陸) was taken into custody for allegedly forging medical documents to evade military service. If proven guilty, Wang could face up to five years in prison.

Since 2023, the criteria for mandatory military service exemptions have become stricter. Men seeking exemptions must have a height below 155 centimeters, a BMI under 15 or over 35, or meet more rigorous vision and ocular standards.

Some individuals have admitted that friends intentionally gained or lost weight to meet exemption criteria, though they consider such behavior unhealthy. In response to a 2024 military staffing ratio of only 78.6%, the armed forces have broadened recruitment standards. They have also relaxed tattoo restrictions and removed the 200-centimeter height limit to boost personnel numbers.

Exemptions for specific illnesses now require more stringent verification. For instance, those with Tourette syndrome must show symptoms after six months of treatment, while hereditary anemia requires confirmation through blood electrophoresis or genetic testing. Although some students admit reluctance to serve, they assert that forging medical records is rare.

The military's efforts to expand recruitment reflect a significant drive to address staffing challenges. As the investigation into Wang's case unfolds, it may prompt further scrutiny of military exemption practices and regulations.