SHINee’s Minho set an impressive time of 3 hours and 18 seconds in his first-ever full marathon but became embroiled in an unexpected controversy.
On November 1st, Minho participated in the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon and completed the 42.195km full course in 3 hours and 18 seconds. Despite it being his first full marathon, he narrowly missed the “sub-3” mark—finishing just 18 seconds over 3 hours—demonstrating outstanding stamina.
Right after the race, Minho shared a photo of himself finishing along with his official timing certificate on social media. According to the certificate, his average pace was 4 minutes and 16 seconds per kilometer. His overall ranking in the race was 1,137th, and he placed 1,112th in the men’s category.
Minho expressed mixed feelings, saying, “Failed sub-3… by 18 seconds… but still a very valuable experience. That’s why life is like a marathon.” He added, “After 30km, my willpower really got tested a lot. Rather than regret, this race made me realize my own shortcomings.” Looking ahead, he vowed, “I’ll challenge it again. Sub-3, just wait.”
He also sincerely thanked the many supporters cheering along the course: “Thank you again to everyone who cheered on the streets. My challenge continues. Please watch over me and keep supporting me.”
However, the joy of finishing was short-lived as controversy flared online. A video surfaced showing a man, believed to be a pacemaker, pushing Minho’s back while running, sparking debate.
In marathons, pacemakers help runners keep a steady pace to meet their goal time. But there’s a distinction between running alongside and adjusting pace naturally, and providing direct physical propulsion through contact. Some questioned whether pushing Minho’s back exceeded the allowable assistance under competition rules.
Minho posted a photo with his running companions on social media, expressing gratitude toward the pacemakers. He wrote, “Junhwan hyung, my pacemaker!!! Thanks to you, I achieved a good record. You’re the best.”
He continued, “You know it gave me extra strength having you run beside me, right? Eunseop, thanks for all the hard work filming the marathon. Next time, I’ll definitely succeed. And where did our coach Gyunam go?” He ended with thanks to those who were by his side.
Meanwhile, the World Athletics (WA) competition rules specify the limits of external aid that are not allowed. Rule TR 6.3.1 prohibits pacing by someone not in the race or by a runner who has already been lapped or about to be lapped. Rule TR 6.3.5 bans physical assistance from other runners or officials that helps forward motion.
However, simple physical contact does not automatically constitute a rule violation. It must be assessed whether actual propulsion was provided and how the act affected the race. Therefore, based on the video alone, it is difficult to definitively conclude whether Minho violated rules or whether his record should be invalidated.