[sig-node] [Exception Request] KEP-5758: Per-container ulimits configuration — Code Freeze Exception for v1.36

[Bing Hongtao]

Hi,

I am requesting a code freeze exception to allow for the following feature enhancements. Details are as follows:

Enhancement name: Per-container ulimits configuration
Enhancement status: alpha
SIG: Sig Node
k/enhancements repo issue: https://github.com/kubernetes/enhancements/issues/5758
PR: https://github.com/kubernetes/kubernetes/pull/137023

Additional time needed: 5 calendar days

Reason this enhancement is critical for this milestone: Feature requests for this functionality have existed for years in issues within the k/k repo, and many users need this feature. Currently, this feature is in the alpha-1 phase and still needs to wait until the alpha-2 phase before it is truly usable. Pushing this feature forward in v1.36 can help it become available more quickly in v1.37; otherwise, users would have to wait another two release cycles to use it.
Risks from adding code late: This feature is an independent module and does not affect other functionalities, so theoretically, there should be no impact.
Risks from cutting enhancement: It would delay the release of this feature and could cause the feature's owners and reviewers to forget some details in the next release cycle, leading to unnecessary complications.

[Ryota]

Hi all,

The release team is APPROVING this exception request for KEP-5758 based on the discussion in the Slack thread[0].

Given KubeCon EU is taking place in the week of 23rd March, we are accepting longer extension than usual.
Based on the 5 calendar day extension, your updated deadline to merge code + test PRs for this KEP is:
Monday, 23rd March, 2026 (Anywhere-on-Earth) / 12:00 UTC on Tuesday, 24th March, 2026.

Thanks,
Ryota Sawada
v1.36 Release Team Lead

[0]: https://kubernetes.slack.com/archives/C2C40FMNF/p1773989359404489