WINNER's Song Min-ho Faces Prison Sentence Request at First Trial for Military Service Law Violations

Song Min-ho, formerly of the group WINNER, has been sentenced to a requested 1 year and 6 months in prison after standing trial for violating military service law. Song admitted to all charges and stated he would diligently fulfill his duties if given another chance to serve. The first trial took place on the morning of October 21st at the Seoul Western District Court. Prior to the trial, Song apologized to reporters and fans for causing disappointment, stating he was deeply reflecting on his actions. When asked about his profession by the judge, he replied, "Singer." Song's legal team acknowledged all charges presented by the prosecution. The legal representative for Song's service supervisor, A, denied collusion with Song, claiming no involvement in the alleged violations. Song is accused of deserting his post without justifiable reason and neglecting his duties, including attendance, while serving as a social worker since March 2023. He was indicted for 102 days of unauthorized absence during his service period.

Service supervisor A is being tried alongside Song for allegedly neglecting his oversight responsibilities, despite knowing about Song's poor work attitude. Investigations revealed that when Song requested to be absent due to fatigue or other reasons, A would approve it and falsify documents to make it appear as if he had reported for duty. In his closing statement, Song expressed regret for not fulfilling his military duties faithfully and revealed he is currently suffering from bipolar disorder and panic disorder. He acknowledged that these conditions should not be used as excuses and apologized for failing to set an example as a public figure who receives much love. He added that he is receiving treatment diligently and wishes to complete his service faithfully if given the chance to re-serve. Song's lawyer emphasized that Song is remorseful for not fulfilling his military obligations properly. The lawyer explained that Song was experiencing severe panic attacks, bipolar disorder, and cervical disc herniation, causing him significant physical and mental distress at the time. The defense argued that while Song forgot the strict standards expected of a public figure, he did not evade his mistakes and requested the court grant him maximum leniency. Article 89-2 of the Military Service Act stipulates a prison sentence of up to 3 years for social service personnel who are absent from duty for 8 or more days without justifiable reason.