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Tottenham forward Son Heung-min could find his potential two years of military service hinges on how well South Korea perform in August's Asian Games.

The 26-year-old signed a new deal until 2023 on Friday, but supporters have been concerned that he could have to head back home to be conscripted.

South Korean law dictates that all males from the country must be called up for military service before the age of 28, with Son having turned 26 on July 8.

However, exemptions are made for high-profile sports stars who achieve success for the country.

(Image: Tottenham Hotspur FC) (Image: REX/Shutterstock)

The South Korean team which reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in 2002 were all granted exemptions, as are Olympic gold medal winners and gold medal winners at the Asian Games. The South Korea men's team which won bronze at the London 2012 Olympics were also granted exemptions.

Instead of the two years' service, they are required to do four weeks of basic training as long as they remain in their sport for three years.

South Korea crashed out at the group stages of the World Cup this summer, despite beating Germany in their final game.

The prospect of not doing your military service is not welcomed in South Korea, and Son has remained silent on the issue.

(Image: Action Images) (Image: CameraSport)

Footballers are allowed to continue their careers during the conscription, with most playing for the country's military teams, but both Son and Spurs would be disappointed to part ways.

But after World Cup failure, the forward - his country's most high-profile player - will be desperate for some success at the Asian Games to avoid a messy issue.

The games take place in Indonesia between August 18 and September 2, meaning that Son will miss the start of the Premier League season..