On April 1, 2025, the Mayor of Seoul and the city’s Metropolitan Government unveiled new regulations aimed at military public service workers, a move prompted by the controversy surrounding idol Song Min-ho. As reported by AllKpop, the National Police Agency confirmed that Song had been subjected to three rounds of questioning and extensive digital forensic examinations.
This situation arose following accusations in December 2024 that Min-ho, who served at the Mapo-gu welfare society, had a troubling attendance record, missing numerous workdays. Despite assurances from his agency, YG Entertainment, that his absences were in line with approved regulations, the National Police Agency’s latest revelations indicated that he acknowledged his irregular attendance.
According to a police spokesperson:
“He admitted to leaving the workplace during working hours.”
In response to the ongoing backlash, the Seoul Mayor proposed a series of initiatives designed to enhance attendance among military public service personnel. Notably, one recommendation involves revising the sick leave policy, whereby the number of sick days allotted would correlate with the duration of service. Moreover, the initiative aims to provide incentives for employees who do not utilize their sick leave.
Other suggestions put forth include implementing performance-based compensation and empowering placement agencies to impose disciplinary measures for worker misconduct. According to AllKpop, these proposals were informed by an immediate audit reviewing the attendance of 1,500 social service workers under the city’s jurisdiction.
This audit unearthed 14 cases of unauthorized absences, with only a fraction reported to the relevant authorities. Consequently, the Seoul government is reportedly developing an electronic attendance tracking system to more effectively manage these disciplinary matters. Unveiling the rationale behind the proposals, a city official remarked:
“We want to ensure that outstanding individuals are assigned to critical national and municipal institutions. It’s important to prevent hard-working service workers from feeling disillusioned due to the actions of a few.”
The proposals are currently under review by the Military Manpower Administration, and it remains to be seen whether they will gain traction.
Understanding Song Min-ho’s Attendance Controversy in the Military Service Context
For readers unfamiliar with South Korean military obligations, all able-bodied men are mandated to fulfill a period of service, typically as active soldiers. However, those deemed unfit for such duties due to health or other circumstances may be assigned as social workers. Song Min-ho began his service as a public servant in March 2023 and was discharged in December 2024. Shortly thereafter, accusations regarding his attendance emerged, alongside troubling reports from his coworkers suggesting misconduct.
The Seoul Mapo Police launched an investigation into the allegations, focusing on potential violations of the Military Service Act. During this inquiry, which spanned three separate questioning sessions on January 23, February 15, and February 26, 2025, Song reportedly admitted to various accusations. Moreover, the National Police Agency gathered evidence, including CCTV footage, to substantiate these claims.
As the investigation remains active, the police have yet to refer the case to prosecution. The Military Manpower Administration has indicated that should the accusations be corroborated, there is a possibility of revoking Song Min-ho’s discharge, requiring him to serve an additional term equivalent to his initial service period.