WINNER member Song Mino has publicly released a handwritten apology for violating military service laws, expressing regret over his irresponsible choices.
On October 9th, Song Mino posted a handwritten apology on his social media, saying, “I bow my head and sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people because of me.”
He added, “I should have clarified my position sooner, but it’s too late now. I’m sorry for making you wait for a long time,” apologizing for the delayed statement.
He especially expressed remorse, saying, “Above all, I am very sorry for disappointing the young people who are fulfilling their military duties and my fans who have cared for me more than anyone else.”
Song Mino said, “I have regretted every day. I am ashamed and hate my past irresponsible choices,” and stated, “I will not avoid reflecting on my foolish mistakes.”
He continued, “I will sincerely fulfill the remaining procedures and obligations,” and added, “I will remember this incident and live with a more responsible attitude. Once again, I sincerely apologize.”
Earlier, on the 1st, Judge Sung Joon Gyu of the Seoul Western District Court’s Criminal Division No.10 sentenced Song Mino, who was indicted for violating military service laws, to one year in prison with a two-year probation.
Song Mino was tried for 102 days of absence without valid reason while serving as a social service agent at a facility in Mapo-gu, Seoul, from March 2023 to December 2024.
The court pointed out, “Military service is a basic duty of citizens that must be faithfully carried out, and social service agents are no exception,” adding, “The 102-day unauthorized absence during the service period is a serious offense.”
However, the sentencing considered Song Mino’s admission of guilt, remorse, ongoing psychiatric treatment, and lack of prior criminal records.
Lee, the service management official who was co-indicted for aiding Song Mino’s service absence, received a 10-month prison sentence suspended for two years. The court judged that Lee participated in the absence by knowing about Song Mino’s absences but processing them as if he had reported normally.
However, Lee denied the accusations, claiming, “I did not conspire with Song Mino to evade service.” On the 6th, it was reported that Lee filed an appeal against the first trial sentence for violating military service laws through his legal representative.