The supervisor in charge of monitoring Song Min Ho’s attendance, who is suspected of giving the WINNER member preferential treatment, refrained from commenting on the allegations, saying, “It could be disadvantageous for Min Ho.”
The SBS program 'Curious Story Y,' which aired on December 27, explored allegations of Song Min Ho’s negligence of duty and alleged forged attendance during his alternative military service.
A social service worker, identified as 'A,' who worked with Song Min Ho, claimed, “When answering calls, we’re supposed to say, ‘This is [Name] from the Street Parking Team. How can I help you?’ But Min Ho refused to take calls, saying his name would be revealed. He also avoided tasks where he might interact directly with civilians, claiming they would recognize him. After going to the post office one time, he never went again.” 'A' also alleged that Song Min Ho sat in areas not designated for social service workers, choosing spots where he wouldn’t be noticed.
'A' added, “At first, he showed up regularly. Then it became once or twice a week, or maybe two to three times. He definitely didn’t come in every day. At its worst, I saw him only once or twice a month. Toward the end, he was barely there.”
When asked about the allegations of frequent absence, a representative from the Facilities Management Corporation said, “The matter is under investigation, so I need to be cautious,” and declined further comment. The show’s producers pressed, “This is a simple matter. Did he come to work or not?” but the representative reiterated the same response, asking for understanding.
Song Min Ho had previously disclosed on a program that he had been battling panic disorder, bipolar disorder, and depression since 2017. However, during this period, Min Ho remained highly active, appearing in films, TV shows, overseas schedules, and even holding solo exhibitions. A mental health expert commented, “Many individuals with panic symptoms receive a Grade 4 classification and serve as social service workers. If their condition prevents them from working, it suggests severe deterioration. If his symptoms made interpersonal tasks difficult, it’s curious how he was still able to perform in the spotlight in front of large audiences.”
'C,' a staff member at the Community Welfare Facility where Min Ho was transferred, also alleged, “I only saw Min Ho two or three times over the course of 10 months. You can’t take unlimited sick or annual leave—it doesn’t make sense. At the previous location, where there were about 200 people, he reportedly showed up regularly. Here, with only about 13 staff members, he was rarely seen. Even when the Military Manpower Administration came to inspect and take photos for hair regulation compliance, he wasn’t present. It seems he was given special treatment.”
Meanwhile, the supervisor suspected of giving preferential treatment to Song Min Ho told the program, “If I say the wrong thing, it could be used against Min Ho. I hope to speak on the matter later if given the opportunity,” again avoiding direct answers.
The Military Manpower Administration stated, “We have requested an investigation into the matter and will take appropriate action based on the results. Several rules could apply, including unauthorized absenteeism and obstruction of public duties.”
Attorney Kim Yoo Don commented on the potential consequences if the allegations are confirmed: “If someone leaves their post without a valid reason for eight days or more, they can face up to three years in prison. Additionally, they may be required to serve an additional service which is five times the period of their absence.”
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