WINNER's Song Min-ho Faces 18-Month Sentence for Absenteeism Amid Mental Health Struggles

Song Min-ho, a member of the popular K-pop group WINNER, is facing a potential 18-month prison sentence for habitual absenteeism during his mandatory social service. The case has brought renewed attention to his past statements about mental health struggles.

From March 2023 to December 2024, Song was assigned to work as a social service agent at the Mapo District Facilities Management Corporation and community facilities. However, he is accused of being absent without leave for a total of 102 days, according to the indictment.

On the 21st, the Seoul Western District Court held the first trial for Song Min-ho and his service supervisor, Mr. Lee, who are both charged with violating the Military Service Act. Prosecutors argued that Song's prolonged absences indicate he did not fulfill his duties, recommending an 18-month prison sentence.

Song's legal team argued that he was suffering from bipolar disorder, panic attacks, and physical pain due to a cervical rupture, which led to poor judgment. They also noted that Song voluntarily submitted evidence that could be unfavorable to him, pleading for leniency to allow him to reintegrate as a responsible member of society.

Previously, Song appeared on Channel A's 'Oh Eun-young's Golden Counseling Center,' where he discussed his panic disorder. He shared, "I often wonder if I can get better," revealing that since late 2017, he has experienced severe panic symptoms that led him to seek medical help. He described his condition as "panic disorder and bipolar depression," for which he is receiving medication.

Song also mentioned that he was diagnosed during the filming of 'New Journey to the West' and 'Kang's Kitchen,' stating, "I would secretly cry after filming. Life felt tragic when the cameras were off. I didn't share this with my bandmates to avoid showing weakness. Despite the love and support from fans and colleagues, I constantly questioned what was making me unhappy."

Fellow member Kang Seung-yoon commented, "There were things I could sense without being told," while Lee Seung-hoon added, "Just as there are pros and cons to everything, Min-ho enjoys privileges others don't, which is part of being a public figure."

In his final statement, Song expressed remorse, saying, "As a young man of South Korea, I regret not fulfilling my national defense duties diligently. I apologize for showing a disappointing side to those who love me." He added, "I hope to recover soon and, if given the chance to serve again, I will complete my duties faithfully."

Reporter: Da-yeon Jeong, Ten Asia light@tenasia.co.kr