MINO WINNER Faces Trial: K-Pop Idol’s Military Nightmare Could Force Historic Re-Enlistment

WINNER’s Song Mino—one of K-pop’s most respected rappers—is caught in a legal battle that could make him only the second Korean celebrity to serve military duty twice. After being discharged in December 2024, MINO WINNER now faces trial on March 24, 2026, for allegedly violating South Korea’s Military Service Act during his alternative service as a public service worker.

MINO WINNER Military Case: Timeline & Key Facts

The Allegations Against MINO WINNER

According to investigations by Dispatch and confirmed by the National Police Agency, MINO WINNER allegedly committed serious violations during his 21-month alternative service at the Mapo Community Convenience Facility in Seoul.

Specific Accusations Include:

• Repeated unauthorized absences from workplace during duty hours
• Taking excessive sick leave citing pre-existing conditions (panic disorder and bipolar disorder)
• Poor attendance records and failure to perform assigned duties
• Allegedly signing attendance sheets all in one day with employee collusion
• Leaving work premises without valid authorization

During his third police interrogation on March 26, 2025, a National Police Agency spokesperson confirmed that MINO WINNER “largely admitted to leaving his workplace during working hours”—a damaging admission that strengthens the prosecution’s case.

Could MINO WINNER Serve Military Duty Twice?

Legal experts initially compared MINO’s situation to PSY’s infamous case from the 2000s. PSY served military duty twice after his first service as an industrial technical personnel worker was canceled due to non-compliance, forcing him to re-enlist as an active-duty soldier in 2007.

However, attorney Kim Kang Ho clarified on YTN Radio that re-enlistment is not legally possible under current Military Service Act provisions for public service workers who complete their terms. According to Article 32, there’s no legal basis to convert MINO WINNER’s status or force re-enlistment.

Possible Legal Outcomes:

1. Prison Sentence: Up to 3 years for abandoning service post; up to 1 year for tardiness/unauthorized departure
2. Service Extension: Additional time at a different facility
3. Administrative Penalties: Fines or other non-custodial measures
4. Discharge Cancellation: Extremely rare, but theoretically possible if gross negligence proven

YG Entertainment’s Response & WINNER’s Future

YG Entertainment initially defended MINO WINNER, stating he “used vacation days and sick leaves as per military rules” and cited medical treatment for pre-existing conditions. However, as evidence mounted—including GPS records, mobile phone forensics, and CCTV footage—the agency has gone largely silent.

The scandal has devastated WINNER’s comeback plans. Fans eagerly anticipated the group’s first full four-member return in 2026 after all members completed service. Instead, YG Entertainment signaled that WINNER will likely continue as a trio with Kang Seung-yoon, Kim Jin-woo, and Lee Seung-hoon moving forward.

The three members already held their first standalone concert in July 2025 without MINO while investigations were ongoing—a sign that the group was preparing for his extended absence.

Public Backlash & Career Implications

South Korean public sentiment toward military service violations is unforgiving, particularly for celebrities. Social media reactions to MINO WINNER’s case have been overwhelmingly negative:

• “He should re-enlist as active duty even if the law doesn’t require it”
• “Celebrities always think rules don’t apply to them”
• “He admitted it—what more evidence do we need?”

Previous K-pop stars like MC Mong and VIXX’s Ravi faced career-ending consequences for military service controversies. While PSY eventually rebuilt public trust through years of consistent work and transparency, MINO WINNER faces an uphill battle.

The Medical Defense: Legitimate or Loophole?

MINO WINNER’s defense centers on documented mental health conditions—panic disorder and bipolar disorder—requiring ongoing treatment. His agency maintains that sick leave was legitimate medical necessity, not dereliction of duty.

However, prosecutors argue that even accounting for medical absences, MINO’s GPS records and mobile forensics reveal patterns of unauthorized departures inconsistent with legitimate illness. Dispatch even published photos allegedly showing MINO at social gatherings during claimed sick days, though these haven’t been verified in court.

For comprehensive K-pop news and idol updates, check our K-pop section and entertainment coverage.

Stay updated on WINNER’s official activities at YG Entertainment and follow K-pop legal developments at AllKpop News.

What Happens on March 24, 2026?

The first trial hearing at Seoul Western District Court will determine whether MINO WINNER violated the Military Service Act beyond reasonable doubt. Both MINO and the facility supervisor (“Official A”) face charges—the supervisor for allegedly failing to report MINO’s absences properly.

Prosecutors stated they’ve secured “objective evidence” and will “do their utmost to maintain the indictment so that punishment corresponding to their crimes can be carried out.”

If convicted, MINO could face:

• Criminal record impacting future international activities
• Loss of sponsorships and brand deals
• Potential military service extension at a different facility
• Effective end to WINNER group activities
• Severe damage to solo career prospects

Even acquittal won’t erase the reputational damage in South Korea’s military-conscious culture.

The Bigger Picture: Celebrity Privilege in Question

MINO WINNER’s case has reignited debates about whether Korean celebrities receive preferential treatment during mandatory service. Public service positions—designed for those physically or mentally unfit for combat—have occasionally been criticized as “easier” alternatives exploited by privileged individuals.

The Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office emphasized this case sends a message: “No one is above military service law, regardless of fame or fortune.”

FAQs