Winner's Song Min-ho Faces Controversy Amid Dating Rumors and Service Allegations

Song Min-ho of the K-pop group Winner is currently embroiled in controversy following allegations regarding his military service and rumors of a romantic relationship with actress Park Joo-hyun. The situation escalated after reports surfaced on December 17, indicating that Song, who is serving as a social service worker, had not been fulfilling his duties properly since returning from a trip to Hawaii in October. The report suggested that the manual attendance system could be manipulated, raising further questions about his service record.

In response, YG Entertainment stated, "We cannot provide detailed information regarding the artist's service. However, the sick leave was taken in accordance with regulations, and the reason was an extension of treatment received prior to service."

On December 18, dating rumors between Song Min-ho and Park Joo-hyun emerged, claiming that their relationship developed after they co-starred in the 2022 Netflix series 'Seoul Vibes'. YG reiterated their stance, stating that they could not confirm details about the artists' private lives, a sentiment echoed by Park Joo-hyun's agency, 935 Entertainment.

However, YG's repeated emphasis on 'privacy' has sparked backlash, as evidence of the couple's past interactions has resurfaced. In 2022, Song Min-ho sent a coffee truck to the set of Park Joo-hyun's drama 'The Forbidden Marriage', and she attended his brand launch event later that year. Additionally, sightings of the pair on a date at a barbecue restaurant circulated on social media in June, and a July incident involving a photo of Park Joo-hyun with a man in a mirror led to speculation that it was Song Min-ho, prompting her to delete the post.

As the allegations continue to mount, Song Min-ho has remained silent. The Military Manpower Administration has begun investigating the attendance manipulation claims, and police have received complaints regarding potential violations of military service laws, complicating the situation further. Song Min-ho is set to be discharged from service on December 23.