K-pop sensation WINNER’s member, Song Min-ho, has recently found himself embroiled in controversy due to accusations of neglecting his obligations as an active military personnel. In light of these allegations, an investigation was initiated to determine their validity.
On March 31, a spokesperson from the National Police Agency disclosed reports indicating that Min-ho had “largely admitted to departing from his workplace during business hours,”as noted by Herald Pop. Subsequently, on April 2, Sports Seoul confirmed the completion of the agency’s third phase of investigations into the matter.
Consequences for Song Min-ho’s Military Service
The investigations revealed substantial evidence supporting the claims that Min-ho had been absent from duty for significant durations while serving as a public service worker. According to Herald Pop, as of March 26, the National Police Agency had conducted three rounds of investigations regarding Min-ho under the Military Service Act. This included a search and seizure operation alongside a communications investigation.
If the allegations are confirmed, Min-ho could face the cancellation of his discharge status and might be required to extend his service period. Per Article 33 of the Military Service Act, personnel found to be absent from their posts for extended periods may be mandated to serve five times the length of their absence.
A more severe scenario involves criminal charges, which could lead to imprisonment of up to three years for individuals who fail to attend their posts for eight or more days without approval.
Min-ho had completed his military service on December 23, 2024, after fulfilling his duties as a social service worker. However, his previous absenteeism raised significant concerns regarding adherence to military protocols.
Initially stationed at the Mapo Community Service Facility in Seoul, he was reported absent multiple times, leading to questions about his attendance from fellow servicemen.
In response to the situation, YG Entertainment, representing Min-ho, issued a statement clarifying his sick leave was due to the continuation of treatment for health issues he experienced before his service. They emphasized that all other vacation days were utilized as per regulations.
Min-ho cited panic and anxiety disorders as reasons for his frequent leaves, yet reports surfaced of him attending social events in coastal areas such as Goseong and Yangyang. He had enlisted in the military in March 2023.
In light of these events, Seoul’s Mayor, Oh Se-hoon, initiated a city-wide examination of the social service centers, resulting in Min-ho being formally charged for allegedly violating the Military Service Act.
Understanding Song Min-ho’s Journey
Song Min-ho, widely recognized by his mononym Mino, debuted as a rapper with WINNER in 2013, joining forces with fellow K-pop stars Seung-yoon, Seung-hoon, and Jin-woo. He gained additional fame as a contestant on the fourth season of the reality show “Show Me the Money,”later returning as a judge in its tenth season. In 2018, he launched a solo career with the EP titled “XX.”
WINNER has remained on hiatus since 2020 following Jin-woo’s military enlistment; however, the group made a notable return in 2022 with their fourth EP, “Holiday,”featuring the lead track “I Love U.”Despite their individual activities and group events, the band is yet to announce a comeback in the current year.