WINNER member Song Mino is facing serious legal consequences after South Korean prosecutors filed charges related to violations of the Military Service Act — a development that could carry the risk of imprisonment if confirmed by the court.
According to the Seoul Western District Prosecutor’s Office, Song Mino has been indicted without detention for allegedly failing to properly fulfill his duties while serving as a community service worker. The charges stem from repeated unauthorized absences during his enlistment period.
Prosecutors Confirm Additional Absences Through Digital Evidence
During a supplementary investigation, prosecutors uncovered further evidence suggesting that Song Mino left his assigned workplace on multiple occasions without authorization. Authorities reportedly conducted forensic analysis of his mobile phone along with GPS data tracking, which revealed additional instances of absence beyond those initially identified.
As a result of the expanded investigation, the total number of days Song Mino is believed to have been absent from work is now expected to exceed eight days.
Legal Threshold Raises the Stakes
Under South Korea’s Military Service Act, community service workers who fail to report to their designated workplace or neglect assigned duties for eight days or more without a legitimate reason may face criminal punishment. The law allows for a sentence of up to three years in prison for violations that meet this threshold.
This means that if the court ultimately determines that Song Mino was absent for eight or more days without valid justification, the idol could face the possibility of incarceration.
Case Still Under Legal Review
While the indictment has been filed, Song Mino has not been taken into custody, and the case will proceed through the judicial process to determine responsibility and potential sentencing. At this stage, prosecutors are continuing to review the details surrounding the absences, including whether any mitigating circumstances apply.
The case has drawn public attention due to the strict enforcement of South Korea’s military service laws, particularly in high-profile cases involving celebrities.
As the investigation moves forward, both the entertainment industry and the public will be watching closely to see how the court interprets the evidence — and whether Song Mino’s absences meet the legal criteria that could result in criminal punishment.
