During the first trial held on April 21 at the Seoul Western District Court, prosecutors said Song Mino had fully admitted to the charges, leading them to seek a prison sentence.
The case centers on allegations that he neglected his duties as a social worker, including repeated absences and leaving his assigned job without good reason.
According to the prosecution:
- Song Mino served from March 2023 to December 2024
- He allegedly missed 102 days of duty without valid excuse
- This represents approximately 25% of its total service period
In one case, he reportedly worked just 4 of the required 23 days in July 2024, intensifying scrutiny of his conduct.
Additionally, a supervising officer (identified as A) is accused of falsifying attendance records and enabling his absences, although the individual has denied the allegations.
In his final statement, Song Mino expressed deep remorse: “I have not fulfilled 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 faithfully complete my duties.”
His comments reflect both an acknowledgment of the 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 problems, including neck injuries
- Your cooperation during the investigation, including the presentation of 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 sanctions depending on severity
Song Mino’s admission and apology could influence the sentence, but the prosecution’s request signals the seriousness of the case.
Sources: Daum | stellar news
