The prosecution asserts a collusion between Song Min-ho and Manager A.
This unauthorized absence is likely to have serious implications for Song Min-ho's image and future activities.
[TV Daily Reporter Kim Ji-ha] It has been revealed through the prosecution's indictment that Song Min-ho of the group WINNER has been absent without permission for a total of 102 days while serving as a social service worker. The Seoul Western District Prosecutors' Office stated that Song Min-ho was absent without justifiable reasons during his service at facilities in Mapo-gu, including community welfare centers. Given that the service period is 1 year and 9 months, with actual working days amounting to about 430, this unauthorized absence accounts for roughly 25% of his service. Under Article 89-2 of the Military Service Act, a person who is absent for more than 8 days without just cause may face up to 3 years in prison.
Reports indicate that Song Min-ho's unauthorized absences increased as his service period approached its end. According to the prosecution's list of charges, he had only one unauthorized absence per day from March to May 2023, but this shot up to 19 days in July 2024. Additionally, the prosecution alleges that Manager A was complicit in Song Min-ho's actions by allowing him to take days off on the pretext of oversleeping and fatigue, while falsifying documents to make it seem as though he had actually worked.
Since taking over the case last May, the prosecution has reportedly conducted forensic examinations of his phone and checks of GPS data to uncover additional instances of unauthorized absences. In response to these allegations, Song Min-ho's agency, YG Entertainment, claimed that his sick leave was a continuation of prior treatment and asserted that all other time off was taken in accordance with regulations. The first trial for Song Min-ho and Manager A is scheduled to take place on April 21 at the Seoul Western District Court.
The number of days Song Min-ho was absent without permission raises serious concerns about his accountability as a social service worker. Considering the significant responsibility attached to this role, his unauthorized absence of 102 days cannot be taken lightly. This situation is likely to cause considerable disappointment among his fans and the public, potentially tarnishing his reputation.
Moreover, the response from his agency, YG Entertainment, deserves scrutiny. While they assert that Song Min-ho was on sick leave, fans may find themselves bewildered by these claims amid allegations of misconduct. This dilemma puts Song Min-ho in a position where he must consider how to regain public favor, which may complicate his return to the entertainment scene.
As legal proceedings unfold, the reactions from fans and the broader public will significantly impact his future endeavors. While his fanbase remains supportive, such incidents can severely damage the trust they place in him. Observing how this affects future promotions and musical activities will be crucial.
This article is KOSTAR’s reinterpretation of a story originally reported by TVDaily.
Photo: TVDaily
