While SHINee’s Minho apologized for receiving physical help during a marathon and returned his completion record, a complaint has been filed requesting a review of the appropriateness of his role as a public relations ambassador for the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee.
According to the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee on November 4th, a complaint was submitted asking them to review whether it is appropriate for Minho to continue his ambassador activities, to verify the application of race rules and record processing by the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon organizing committee, and to confirm the basis for assigning Minho to Group B.
The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee plans to assign a person in charge and investigate the related matters.
The Korean Sport & Olympic Committee appointed Minho as an ambassador in September of last year, stating at the time that he would participate in promotional activities aimed at revitalizing everyday sports and conveying sports policy messages.
Minho attended the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon held on the 1st. Challenging a full marathon for the first time in his life, Minho crossed the finish line in 3 hours, 0 minutes, and 18 seconds. His time drew attention for missing the “sub-3” full marathon completion mark by just 18 seconds.
However, after the event, a video circulated online showing a person, presumed to be a pacemaker running alongside Minho, placing their hand on Minho’s back and waist as if pushing him forward, sparking controversy over a violation of race rules.
SHINee’s Minho Gets Embroiled In Unexpected Controversy After His First Marathon
As the controversy grew, Minho directly apologized on his social media on the 3rd.
“I Feel Deeply Ashamed” — SHINee’s Minho Addresses Marathon Controversy
Then, on the 4th, he voluntarily returned his finishing record to the event organizer. It was reported that the organizers accepted Minho’s intention and decided not to provide official results for this race.
However, despite Minho’s apology and record return, the controversy extended to the appropriateness of his role as an ambassador for the Korean Sport & Olympic Committee. The complaint asks not only to verify the race process and record handling but also the appropriateness of his Group B assignment and whether he should continue his ambassador duties.