Song Min ho of WINNER Faces Trial for Military Service Violations: The 102-Day Absence Scandal and Its FalloutSong Min-ho, better known as Min ho, the rapper, singer, and songwriter from YG Entertainment’s boy group WINNER, is at the center of one of the most high-profile military service controversies in recent K-pop history.
On April 21, 2026, the 33-year-old idol appeared in court for the first hearing on charges of violating South Korea’s Military Service Act. Prosecutors have requested a sentence of one year and six months in prison after alleging he was absent without authorization for 102 days—roughly one-quarter of his required service period—while serving as a social service worker.
Min ho has admitted to all charges and publicly apologized, but the case has ignited intense debate about celebrity privilege, mental health, and the strict enforcement of mandatory military duty in South Korea.
Who Is Song Min ho?
Born on March 30, 1993, Song Min-ho rose to fame as a member of WINNER, the YG boy group that debuted in 2014 after winning the survival show WIN: Who Is Next?. Known for his distinctive rap style, songwriting, and charismatic stage presence, Min ho quickly became one of the group’s standout members. WINNER achieved major success with hits like “Empty,” “Really Really,” and “Sentimental,” establishing themselves as a leading act in the K-pop scene. Beyond the group, Min ho has pursued solo activities, acting roles, and variety shows, building a dedicated fanbase.
Like all able-bodied South Korean men, Min ho was required to complete mandatory military service. In his case, he was assigned to alternative service as a social service worker (a common option for those classified as supplemental service due to health or other factors).
South Korea’s Mandatory Military Service: Context and Strict Rules
South Korea maintains one of the world’s most rigorous conscription systems, requiring approximately 18–21 months of active duty or equivalent alternative service for men. Evasion or negligence is treated severely under the Military Service Act. For social service workers, unauthorized absences of eight days or more can lead to criminal charges, with penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment of up to three years. Falsifying records or collusion with supervisors is viewed as an aggravating factor. The law reflects a deep cultural emphasis on national defense, and violations by public figures often trigger widespread public outrage.
High-profile K-pop idols have faced scrutiny in the past for similar issues, making Min ho’s case part of a broader pattern where fans and netizens demand accountability
The Allegations: 220 Days of Unauthorized Absences
Min ho began his service in March 2023 at the Mapo Facility Management Corporation and Mapo-gu resident convenience facilities in Seoul. His assignment later shifted within the same district. According to the prosecution, he only attended a total of 102 days out of roughly 430 required duty days between March 2023 and December 2024.
Prosecutors allege that Min ho colluded with his supervisor, identified only as Mr. Lee (or “A”), who allegedly falsified attendance records, signed off on unearned sick leave, and allowed Min ho to skip work for reasons such as oversleeping or fatigue. Evidence reportedly includes phone records, GPS data, and CCTV footage from the workplace. One specific example cited involved a month in which Min ho worked only four out of 19 days.
The scandal first gained traction in late 2024 when reports emerged, prompting the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) to request a police investigation. Min ho was booked by Mapo Police in December 2024. He initially denied some allegations during early questioning but later admitted to the bulk of the claims after additional evidence surfaced. He was formally indicted without detention on December 30, 2025, alongside his supervisor.
YG Entertainment initially defended him, stating that any leave taken was for medical treatment or followed regulations. The agency has not issued a new statement following the latest court developments.
The First Trial: Admission, Apology, and Prosecutors’ Demand
The first hearing took place on April 21, 2026, at Seoul Western District Court’s Criminal Division 10. Upon arrival, Min ho told reporters, “I’m sorry. I am reflecting.” Inside the courtroom, he admitted to every charge in the indictment.
In his final statement, Min ho expressed deep remorse:
“I want to apologize to the judge and everyone here. As a young man of the Republic of Korea, I failed to faithfully fulfill my national defense duty to the end. I suffer from bipolar disorder and panic disorder, but I know full well that these illnesses can never be an excuse or justification. As someone who receives love from many people, I am truly sorry for not setting a good example and showing such a shameful side. All that remains is regret for my foolish choices.” He added that he is undergoing treatment and, if given the opportunity to re-serve, “I want to complete it diligently to the end.” His lawyers highlighted his voluntary cooperation during the investigation and requested leniency, citing the mental and physical toll (including cervical issues) he experienced at the time.
Prosecutors, however, pushed back, requesting one year and six months in prison. They argued that the long-term absences and falsified documents showed a deliberate pattern of evasion, dismissing health issues as insufficient justification. The supervisor’s separate hearing is scheduled for May 29, 2026; he has denied collusion.
A verdict has not yet been issued.
Public Reaction and Career Impact
The case has divided opinions. Korean netizens have been largely critical, accusing Min ho of abusing his celebrity status and failing a fundamental civic duty. Online forums have called it a “generational fumble” that damages WINNER’s reputation. International fans have expressed disappointment but also empathy toward his reported mental health struggles, with some questioning the severity of the potential punishment.
WINNER had planned activities around his service, including concerts without him in 2025. The scandal adds uncertainty to the group’s future, especially as the other members have completed or are fulfilling their own service obligations.Broader Implications for K-Pop and Celebrity AccountabilityMin ho’s case underscores the zero-tolerance stance toward military service violations in South Korea. While some idols receive exemptions or alternative paths, the public expects full compliance. Mental health is increasingly discussed in K-pop, but courts and the public often view it as secondary to national duty.If sentenced to prison, Min ho could face career suspension, potential blacklisting from broadcasting, and mandatory re-service. Even without jail time, he may be required to redo portions of his duty. The outcome will likely set a precedent for how the industry and authorities handle similar future cases.As of April 22, 2026, the ball remains in the court’s hands. Min ho has taken responsibility in open court, but the legal and public consequences of his 220-day absence continue to unfold. For a generation that grew up with WINNER’s music, the scandal serves as a stark reminder that even idols are not above the law. The final ruling will determine not only Min ho’s immediate future but also how K-pop navigates the intersection of fame, duty, and personal well-being.
