Police authorities reportedly preparing to summon WINNER's Mino for questioning amidst his military duty controversy

On January 7, 2025, South Korean authorities are reportedly preparing to summon Song Min-ho, known as Mino from the K-pop group WINNER, for questioning amid allegations of violating the Military Service Act during his alternative military service.

Dispatch reported that during a press conference at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency in Seodaemun-gu, a police official stated that WINNER's Mino hasn't been investigated yet.

"He has not been investigated yet."

In South Korea, all able-bodied male citizens are required to complete mandatory military service. Individuals with health issues may be assigned alternative duties as social service agents. Song Min-ho began his service as a social service agent in March 2023, assigned to the Mapo Facilities Management Corporation in Seoul.

Reports surfaced alleging that Song Min-ho neglected his duties during his service. Former colleagues have claimed that he frequently arrived late, was often absent, and failed to perform his assigned tasks.

One former co-worker stated that the K-pop idol hardly ever reported for his duty.

Further allegations suggested that Song Min-ho misused sick leave and other absences, potentially violating regulations governing alternative military service.

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WINNER's Mino faces allegations of negligence of his mandatory military duties

On December 24, 2024, The Korea Times reported that his agency, YG Entertainment, stated that he used his sick leave for treatment he received before beginning his military service and took his other leave in accordance with relevant rules.

The Seoul Mapo Police formally booked Song Min-ho on December 23, 2024, following a request from the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) to investigate the matter. A summons date has not yet been determined.

On December 26, 2024, Sports Chosun reported that Mino frequently took leave from his duties, citing medical reasons. However, investigative reports suggested that during these periods, he was seen attending social events, including a DJ party in Goseong, Gangwon Province, in August 2024.

Photographs from the event show him engaging in leisure activities, which contradicted claims of health issues severe enough to warrant extended sick leave.

Further allegations include testimonies from colleagues who claimed that Mino often reported to work but did not actively participate in assigned tasks, instead spending time resting or engaging in personal activities.

These behaviors have raised questions about the legitimacy of Mino's medical leave and overall commitment to his service obligations.

"Even when he came in occasionally, he just lay down and played games."

The Military Manpower Administration (MMA) initially conducted a preliminary investigation but deferred to the police for a more thorough inquiry.

On December 26, 2024, the Mapo Police officially booked Song Min-ho as a suspect, launching a formal investigation into potential violations of the Military Service Act.

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has also ordered a comprehensive review of service records for all public service workers under the city's jurisdiction, emphasizing the need for fairness and adherence to regulations. Sports Chosun quoted Mayor Oh Se-hoon:

"We will take strict measures based on the results of the investigation, and if necessary, we will suggest to the Military Manpower Administration improvements to the system for fair military service obligations."

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If found guilty of neglecting his duties, WINNER's Mino could face serious repercussions, including the possibility of re-enlistment to complete the required service period properly.

The MMA indicated that any period during which duties were not adequately performed may necessitate additional service time.