Military Service Controversies: Song Min-ho, Na In-woo, and Ok Taec-yeon in the Spotlight

Three celebrities have captured public attention on the same day due to military service-related issues. Song Min-ho is embroiled in allegations of 'inadequate service,' Na In-woo has been exempted from military duty, and Ok Taec-yeon is being praised for his past decision to renounce his U.S. citizenship and complete his military service diligently. Public reactions to these celebrities' attitudes towards military obligations vary widely.

Song Min-ho finds himself at the center of negative controversy. A media outlet reported that Song Min-ho, who is serving as a social service agent, has not been properly attending his duties at the Mapo Resident Welfare Facility. According to the report, he was initially serving at the Mapo Facility Management Corporation but was transferred to the Mapo Resident Welfare Facility in March by decision of the facility's manager, identified as Mr. A.

As the controversy grew, Song Min-ho's agency, YG Entertainment, clarified, "He used sick leave and vacation in accordance with regulations, and the reasons were extensions of treatment he had been receiving before his service." The Military Manpower Administration has decided to investigate the matter, and the outcome will determine whether there was any inadequate service.

On the same day, Na In-woo also made headlines with military-related news. His agency, Hanada Company, confirmed, "It is true that Na In-woo became exempt from military service while waiting to be called up as a social service agent." Na In-woo, who was classified as a fourth-grade supplementary service member, was exempted after waiting for three years without being called up. However, the agency refrained from explaining why he received the fourth-grade classification.

Public reactions were mixed. Some congratulated him on his "good fortune," while others questioned how he could have been actively working during the three-year wait. Critics pointed out that he gained popularity after being cast as the lead in 'River Where the Moon Rises' in 2021, following Ji Soo's school violence controversy, suggesting he could have completed his military service earlier.

In contrast, Ok Taec-yeon's dating news received enthusiastic responses. He has been in a relationship with a non-celebrity for over four years and is praised for renouncing his U.S. citizenship to voluntarily enlist in the South Korean Army, where he was recognized as an exemplary soldier. Since his discharge in May 2019, Ok Taec-yeon has maintained a positive image by continuing his entertainment activities without negative issues.

As Song Min-ho and Na In-woo face criticism for military-related controversies, Ok Taec-yeon's diligent military service history is being highlighted. Song Min-ho is under scrutiny for allegations of inadequate service, and Na In-woo's exemption has raised suspicions. Meanwhile, Ok Taec-yeon's story of renouncing citizenship and being awarded as an exemplary soldier is being revisited, enhancing his favorable image.

Lee So-jung, Ten Asia Reporter forusojung@tenasia.co.kr