Can you receive a military exemption or reduction in service if you have vitiligo?

Yes. In the military service classification, the extent of vitiligo on the face is also evaluated as important.

In the 2015 revision, the criteria were changed so that if vitiligo covers 30% or more of the face, a Grade 4 classification can be given regardless of the area on other parts of the body.

Later, in 2018, the scope of applicable conditions was expanded, and through the 2024 revision, the classification criteria according to the severity of vitiligo were further specified.

In other words, in the military service classification for vitiligo, "where and how much" is more important than simply "whether vitiligo is present".

During the military service physical examination, the lesions are directly examined, and medical records and photographs are reviewed together.

The materials you can prepare are as follows.

- Medical records documenting the diagnosis and treatment course of vitiligo

- If a biopsy was performed, the biopsy result report

- Photographs of the lesions showing the location and extent of vitiligo

- If necessary, a recently issued medical certificate

During the examination, the location and size of the lesions are checked, and if necessary, the extent of vitiligo relative to body surface area is evaluated.

If vitiligo newly develops or worsens during military service, the first step is to receive medical care through the unit's medical corps or a military hospital.

Depending on the need, you may receive medication or phototherapy, and if treatment is difficult at military medical facilities, referral to a civilian hospital may be arranged.

If vitiligo worsens extensively or causes difficulties in continuing service, a review for unfitness for active duty may be considered.

Additionally, if vitiligo worsens during military service, there is a possibility of it being recognized as a service-related injury.

The Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission has a case where it recommended re-evaluating whether a soldier who had some vitiligo before enlistment but experienced significant worsening on the face and entire body during service should be recognized as a service-related injury.

At that time, the possibility of UV exposure, the period during which proper treatment was not received, and medical records from military and civilian hospitals were reviewed together.

However, this is a judgment on an individual case, so not all cases of worsening vitiligo during military service are recognized as service-related injuries.

The military service classification criteria may change over time. If you are actually preparing for the military service physical examination, it is most important to check the latest criteria from the Military Manpower Administration at the time of the examination.