Park set for military service

Striker brushes aside allegations he's trying to dodge service

Last Updated: June 13, 2012 12:51pm

Park Chu-young: The striker has agreed to do military service for South Korea

Arsenal striker Park Chu-young has boosted his chances of representing South Korea at this summer's London Olympics after pledging to do military service.

Park recently obtained a 10-year residence permit from Monaco and delayed his mandatory military service in Korea.

The decision triggered a backlash, prompting the Korean Football Association to leave him out of the national squad for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers earlier this month.

However, the 26-year-old player seemed back in favour again after agreeing to do military service even though he did not elaborate on when he would report for service.

"I am sorry," Park was quoted as saying. "As one of the (Korean) people, I will do my sacred military service no matter what."

Head coach Hong Myung-bo remained positive about Park's chances of being one of Korea's over-age players for the Olympics.

"I had a heart-to-heart talk with Park Chu-young after an evaluation match with Syria on June 7," said Hong, adding he was ready to "work with (Park) through difficulties."

All able-bodied South Korean men are required to serve two to three years in the military. Park is expected to begin his service later year or next year.