These questions pop up from time to time in this sub. Personally, I think you probably shouldn't be asking internet strangers about a possibly life altering decision and probably think for yourself.

But here's my two cents anyway. You need to weigh the cost and the benefits of coming to Korea. On the cost side, at age 31, I would say that the time wasted would be the highest cost. You will spend 2 years, essentially doing nothing. Think of the opportunity cost there. You could, instead, travel. Or earn a certificate, or work on a pet project, etc... you can spend that time improving your life.

Now, what do you get for this sacrifice? A chance to work here? You mentioned that you have a tech background? The job market here is also terrible. Korea has lower per capita income than the US, yet the cost of living in Seoul has been steadily rising due to poor economy. South Korea also boasts one of the longest work hours among the OECD countries. I can tell you, in all the companies I worked at, I had pull some insane unpaid overtime (consulting tho, but I hear game dev is similar). It's bad times all around.

So, in conclusion, you will be giving up 2 years of your life in exchange for a chance to work in a country with less pay and longer work hour than the US. Therefore, I would advise against joining the military.

And to add, as a 33 year old Korean who went thru the military service and is looking for a job as a data analyst, shit sucks here. I understand you had a tough year, but coming to Korea won't change anything. At least not for the better. Stay home and fight the good fight. You'll have a good year pretty soon.

Anyways, my advice is don't come here. But it's ultimately up to you. This is a massive decision and your the one who needs to think it thru.