K-pop star convicted of violating military service law

South Korean court handed a suspended one‑year prison sentence to K‑pop singer Song Min‑ho after he was convicted of willfully missing duties at a community centre where he worked as a social service agent.

The 33‑year‑old, better known by his stage name Mino and a member of the boy band Winner, allegedly recorded 102 un‑authorised absences during his 21‑month stint at the Seoul community centre between 2023 and 2024.

All able‑bodied men in South Korea are required to serve at least 18 months in the military. Those with health issues may be assigned alternative social‑service work, but the duty remains obligatory and “faithful” performance is mandatory.

The court’s ruling includes a suspended sentence, meaning Song would avoid imprisonment if he commits no further offence over the next two years of probation. He admitted to the charges and expressed remorse during the proceedings.

Authorities opened the investigation after his discharge in 2024, spurred by local media reports that he was frequently absent and took excessive sick leave. His supervisor was also handed a suspended jail term for forging attendance records.

The case echoes past controversies involving high‑profile entertainers, such as Psy and Steve Yoo, who faced legal and public backlash for evading or neglecting mandatory service. In a statement to reporters, Song expressed regret and thanked the public for their love, but declined to comment on whether he would re‑enlist for the mandatory duty.