What happened?

Song Min-ho, 33, a member of the K-pop group WINNER, will return to military service after his conviction for violating the Military Service Act. According to Yonhap News, the Military Manpower Administration confirmed on October 16 that he must re-serve his remaining duty because the first-instance ruling has become final.

Why was he convicted?

Song was serving as a social service worker when he left his assigned workplace without permission for a total of 102 days, between March 2023 and December 2024. On October 1, the court sentenced him to one year in prison, suspended for two years. He did not file an appeal, so the sentence stands.

What happens next?

The Military Manpower Administration said officials are reviewing the court documents to determine the exact length of his re-service and the institution where he will serve. He will be formally notified afterward. No schedule has been announced yet.

How did Song respond?

On October 9, Song posted an apology on social media, saying he would faithfully carry out the remaining procedures and obligations.

How are Korean netizens reacting?

Many commenters said the outcome was deserved, with some arguing that a re-service should restart the full term rather than only the remaining days, so that unauthorized absences are not treated lightly. Others questioned whether 102 days was an accurate count, while some joked about the short length of the absence. A few compared the case to the earlier re-service of PSY, also a YG Entertainment artist, though the circumstances differed.

For international fans

Song is known as a member of WINNER, a group formed under YG Entertainment, and has also appeared on variety shows. Korean military service is mandatory for men, and social service workers serve in public institutions rather than in the armed forces. Fans should watch official channels for updates on his notification and service schedule.