During the first trial held on April 21 at the Seoul Western District Court, prosecutors stated that Song Mino had fully admitted to the charges, leading them to seek a custodial sentence.
The case centers on allegations that he neglected his duties as a social service worker, including repeated absences and leaving his assigned workplace without valid reasons.
According to the prosecution:
- Song Mino served from March 2023 to December 2024
- He allegedly missed 102 days of duty without valid justification
- This accounts for roughly 25% of his total service period
In one instance, he reportedly worked only 4 out of 23 required days in July 2024, intensifying scrutiny over his conduct.
Additionally, a supervising official (identified as A) is accused of falsifying attendance records and enabling his absences, though the individual has denied the charges.
In his final statement, Song Mino expressed deep remorse: “I failed to fulfill my duty as a citizen of the Republic of Korea. My bipolar disorder and panic disorder should never be used as an excuse.”
He added: “If given the opportunity, I want to serve again and complete my duties faithfully.”
His comments reflect both acknowledgment of wrongdoing and a willingness to undergo re-service if permitted.
Song Mino’s legal team asked the court to consider mitigating circumstances, citing:
- Severe bipolar disorder and panic attacks
- Physical health issues, including neck injury
- His cooperation during the investigation, including submitting evidence
They argued that these factors contributed to his poor judgment at the time.
Military service violations remain one of the most serious controversies for Korean celebrities. Cases like this often lead to:
- Long-term reputational damage
- Suspension of entertainment activities
- Legal penalties depending on severity
Song Mino’s admission and apology may influence sentencing, but the prosecution’s request signals the seriousness of the case.
Sources: Daum | 스타뉴스
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