Police Investigate WINNER's Song Min-ho for Alleged Military Service Violations

On December 27, 2024, police launched a raid on the workplace of Song Min-ho (송민호), a member of the K-pop group WINNER, amid allegations of inadequate service as a social service worker. The Mapo Police Station in Seoul reported that they conducted a search at the Mapo Community Welfare Center, where Song was assigned, around 1:50 PM, and secured closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from the site.

The investigation was initiated after the Military Manpower Administration submitted a request for an inquiry into Song's conduct. On December 23, he was officially charged with violating military service laws. Allegations against him include taking a six-day trip to Hawaii on October 31 and failing to adhere to his work schedule, raising concerns about his commitment to his duties. After being classified as a 4th-grade supplementary service member during his military physical examination, Song began alternative service at the Seoul Mapo Facility Management Corporation in March 2023 and transferred to the Mapo Community Welfare Center in March 2024. He was discharged from service on December 23, 2024. Reports indicate that he suffers from bipolar disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety.

Additionally, Song is under suspicion of engaging in 'military service transactions' with a public official. The police received a report on December 24 regarding potential collusion between Song and the head of the Mapo Community Welfare Center, and they are investigating this claim as well.

The Military Manpower Administration has stated that if the police investigation confirms issues with Song's service conduct, they may revoke his discharge and require him to serve the equivalent duration of the problematic period, despite his recent discharge. They have opted not to conduct their own investigation since they have referred the matter to the police.