Former WINNER member Song Min-ho, facing charges of negligent service as a social service agent, calmly admitted his wrongdoing. He stated he would not use the mental and physical suffering he experienced during his service as an excuse, and even expressed his willingness to re-enlist. Was this a truly sincere confession?
On the 21st, Criminal Division 10 Single Judge of the Seoul Western District Court held the first public trial for Song Min-ho and his service manager, Mr. A, on charges of violating the Military Service Act. Previously, on December 30, 2025, the Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office, Criminal Division 1 (Chief Prosecutor Won Shin-hye), indicted both individuals without detention for military service law violations.
The courtroom was packed with numerous reporters, reflecting the intense public interest. Additionally, fans, who appeared to be waiting at the court entrance, cheered upon seeing Song Min-ho.
Song Min-ho, who appeared in a black suit today, directly stated that he admitted to all charges presented by the prosecution. The prosecution sought a sentence of 1 year and 6 months in prison for Song Min-ho, alleging that he did not report for duty normally as a social service agent and was absent from his workplace for 102 days.
In his final statement, Song Min-ho said, “I want to apologize to the presiding judge and everyone present here. As a young man of the Republic of Korea, I failed to diligently fulfill my national defense duty to the end. I suffer from bipolar disorder and panic disorder, but I am well aware that these illnesses should never be an excuse or justification. As someone who receives love from many people, I feel deeply sorry for this shameful conduct where I failed to set an example. Only great regret remains regarding my choices.”
He continued, “I am currently undergoing treatment diligently. I hope to recover my health as soon as possible, and if given the opportunity to re-enlist, I want to faithfully complete it to the end. I want to apologize once again.”
It remains uncertain whether Song Min-ho’s apology, in which he readily admitted to the charges and expressed willingness to re-enlist, can reverse negative public perception. With the previous case of PSY’s re-enlistment being mentioned, the atmosphere is currently full of debate. However, as the sentencing date has not yet been set due to Mr. A, who was indicted alongside Song Min-ho, denying his charges, how the court views Song Min-ho’s current charges will likely determine future actions, including the possibility of re-enlistment.
Song Min-ho’s lawyer stated, “Song Min-ho admits all the facts of the indictment and is spending time reflecting on his failure to faithfully fulfill his sacred military service duty as a young man of the Republic of Korea. However, we respectfully request that the court deeply consider his unique circumstances when determining the sentence.”
The lawyer continued, “At the time of the alleged offense, Song Min-ho was suffering from severe mental anguish, including extreme bipolar disorder and panic attacks, as well as physical pain from a cervical spine rupture, making it difficult for him to perform normal duties. Due to this, he made poor judgments, forgetting the strict standards expected of a citizen. However, throughout the investigation, Song Min-ho voluntarily submitted evidence that could be unfavorable to him and cooperated fully with the truth, never evading the weight of his past actions. We earnestly ask the court to show the maximum leniency permitted by law, allowing him to once again respond appropriately to the nation’s call and be reborn as a diligent member of society.”
According to the prosecution, Song Min-ho served as a social service agent at a facility in Mapo-gu, Seoul, from March 2023 to December 2024, but is accused of being absent from his workplace without justifiable reason and neglecting his attendance and duties. Mr. A is accused of neglecting his supervisory duties despite being aware of Song Min-ho’s dereliction of duty.
Song Min-ho, who was assigned Grade 4 supplementary service in his military physical examination, fulfilled his military duty as a social service agent at the Mapo Facilities Management Corporation starting March 2023, and then moved to the Mapo Residents’ Convenience Facility in March 2024. However, allegations of negligent service surfaced just before his discharge, with frequent sick leave and insincere attendance becoming points of contention. It is known that Song Min-ho has been receiving treatment for panic disorder and bipolar disorder during this period.
Song Min-ho, who was discharged on December 23, 2024, faced allegations of neglecting his duties, including failing to properly report for work during his time as a social service agent. The Mapo Police Station in Seoul initiated a summons investigation into Song Min-ho on January 23, 2025, on charges of violating the Military Service Act. At the time, Song Min-ho explained the facts regarding the allegations against him, asserting that he “worked according to regulations” and “had no problems with his service.” However, after three rounds of investigation, it was revealed that he largely admitted to negligent service and unauthorized absence from his workplace.
Specifically, according to the indictment submitted by the prosecution, while serving as a social service agent at the Mapo Facilities Management Corporation and Residents’ Convenience Facility, Song Min-ho was absent without authorization for a total of 102 days, deserting his service without justifiable reason. The service period for a social service agent is 1 year and 9 months, with approximately 430 total working days excluding weekends and public holidays. This means Song Min-ho was absent without authorization for roughly one-quarter of his total service period. Notably, in July 2024, he was absent for 19 days, working only 4 days out of 23 scheduled.
