On March 31, 2025, police confirmed that Song Min-ho, a member of the popular K-pop group Winner, has largely admitted to allegations of being absent during his work hours as a social service worker. This admission came during a press conference held at the Seoul Seodaemun Police Station, where officials provided updates on the ongoing investigation into his conduct while serving his mandatory alternative service.
According to police reports, Song Min-ho underwent three rounds of summons investigations, during which he acknowledged that he had left his assigned post during work hours. A police spokesperson stated, "He generally admitted to the part where he left his place of duty during work hours," highlighting the seriousness of the allegations against him.
Song began his service as a social service worker in March 2023 and was discharged on December 23, 2024. However, allegations of negligence regarding his duties began to surface, particularly after reports indicated that he had been leaving work shortly after clocking in. Dispatch, a South Korean media outlet, reported that Song Min-ho had signed in for work only to leave the premises for personal reasons, raising eyebrows about the integrity of his service.
In response to these allegations, YG Entertainment, the agency representing Song, stated that his absences were due to an extension of medical treatment he had been receiving prior to his service. They emphasized that all other leaves were taken in accordance with regulations. However, this explanation did little to quell public concerns about his commitment to fulfilling his civic duties.
The investigation into Song Min-ho's conduct was initiated after the Military Manpower Administration referred the case to police on December 23, 2024, citing potential violations of the Military Service Act. As part of the investigation, police conducted search and seizure operations and communication investigations to gather further evidence.
During the press conference, police officials reiterated their commitment to thoroughly examining the evidence collected and determining whether charges would be formally pressed against Song Min-ho. They stated, "We will assess the allegations based on the materials secured during our investigation." The police have been under pressure to ensure accountability in cases of military service violations, particularly in light of the public's heightened scrutiny of celebrities and their responsibilities.
Following the controversy surrounding Song Min-ho, Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon ordered an emergency investigation into the actual conditions of social service workers in the city. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with service regulations and to address any potential abuses within the system. The Military Manpower Administration has also announced plans to implement an electronic attendance system to enhance oversight of social service workers, replacing the previous manual attendance tracking system.
In light of the ongoing investigations, the Military Manpower Administration has indicated that if it is confirmed that Song Min-ho did not fulfill his duties adequately, he may be required to serve again for the duration of the time he was absent. This potential consequence underscores the seriousness of the allegations and the importance of maintaining integrity within the military service system.
The scrutiny of Song Min-ho's service record comes amid a broader conversation about the responsibilities of public figures and the expectations placed upon them in South Korea. As the nation continues to grapple with issues related to military service and celebrity culture, this case serves as a reminder of the potential repercussions of failing to meet civic responsibilities.
As the investigation unfolds, fans and the general public alike are watching closely to see how the situation will develop. The implications for Song Min-ho's career, as well as the broader impact on the K-pop industry, remain to be seen. With public sentiment shifting rapidly, the stakes are high for both the artist and his agency as they navigate the fallout from these serious allegations.
In the coming weeks, more information is expected to emerge as the police continue their investigation and the Military Manpower Administration implements its new oversight measures. The case of Song Min-ho highlights the complexities of balancing celebrity status with civic duty, and it raises important questions about accountability and integrity in public service.
