Song Minho Says "Sincere About Serving Again"... Prosecutors Seek 1 Year and 6 Months in Prison

Indicted Without Detention for Violating the Military Service Act
Song Minho’s Side Admits All Charges
"If Given Another Opportunity to Serve, I Will Fulfill My Duties Faithfully"

Prosecutors have requested a prison sentence for singer Song Minho (33), who, while serving as a social service worker, was absent without leave for 102 out of the approximately 430 days he was required to report to work. Song has admitted to all charges and stated that, if given another chance to serve, he wishes to complete his duties faithfully until the end.

Singer Song Minho. Photo by Yonhap News.

On April 21, Judge Sung Jungyu of the 10th Single Criminal Division of the Seoul Western District Court held the first trial for Song, who was indicted without detention on charges of violating the Military Service Act, and for Mr. Lee, head of the community convenience facility in Mapo-gu, Seoul, who was in charge of managing Song's service. Prosecutors stated, "The defendant was absent without leave for an extended period and appears to have effectively not performed his duties." They requested the court sentence Song to 1 year and 6 months in prison.

Song's side admitted, "We acknowledge all the facts of the indictment," but pleaded for leniency, arguing, "He suffered from such severe mental health issues and other conditions that it was extremely difficult for him to perform his duties both physically and mentally."

In his final statement, Song said, "I am sorry for failing to set a good example and showing a disappointing side as someone who receives so much love from many people." He added, "I am suffering from depression and panic disorder. I hope to recover my health as soon as possible, and if given another opportunity to serve, I want to fulfill my duties faithfully until the end."

Previously, Song was brought to trial on charges of habitual unauthorized absences while serving as a social service worker at the Mapo-gu Facilities Management Corporation and community convenience facility from March 2023 to December 2024. Mr. Lee, who was indicted alongside him, is accused of neglecting his supervisory duties despite being aware of Song's poor work attendance.

When leaving the court that day, Song was asked whether he was sincere about his intention to serve again, to which he replied, "Yes," and added, "I will accept and acknowledge whatever punishment may come with humility."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.