WINNER’s Song Min Ho could be required to re-serve 102 days if convicted in military service evasion case

Song Min Ho (Mino), a member of the K-pop group WINNER, could be ordered to complete an additional 102 days of mandatory service if he is found guilty in a criminal trial concerning alleged violations of the Military Service Act, authorities confirmed.

According to information obtained by Financial News on April 22, the Military Manpower Administration (MMA) stated that in cases where a social service worker’s unauthorized absence constitutes a criminal offense, the individual’s discharge may be revoked. The unserved period must then be completed through re-service following a final court ruling. If the court accepts the prosecution’s claim that Song was absent without authorization for 102 days, he is expected to be required to return and serve that period in full.

Legal interpretations indicate that because the alleged absence exceeds eight days, the case falls under criminal liability provisions of South Korean military service law. Absences under eight days are typically subject to administrative penalties requiring extended service, while absences of eight days or more may result in criminal prosecution and court-ordered re-service for the unfulfilled period.

The MMA further explained that the final assignment for re-service may be reassessed. If a local military authority determines that imprisonment or detention prevents continued service in the original position, a reassignment to a different service institution may be ordered.

During court proceedings, Song reportedly stated that he would “complete his duty sincerely until the end if given another opportunity to re-serve.” In response, the MMA reiterated that it would follow established legal procedures and revoke discharge status if required by a final judgment.

Song is accused of serving as a social service worker at a public facility operated by the Mapo District Office in Seoul from May 30, 2023, to December 2, 2024, while repeatedly failing to report for duty without valid justification.

At his first trial session held on April 21 at the Seoul Western District Court, Song admitted to all charges. Prosecutors have requested a prison sentence of one year and six months. In a separate charge, a supervising official identified as Mr. Lee is accused of falsely recording Song’s absences as regular attendance despite being aware of the unauthorized leave. Mr. Lee has denied the allegations, and the next hearing is scheduled for May 21.