WINNER member Song Mino has returned to social media after approximately three years and seven months, but instead of celebrating the completion of his military service, the 33-year-old singer issued a handwritten apology over his military service controversy. Meanwhile, actor Byun Yo Han has also attracted criticism after publicly expressing support for Song Mino following his conviction.
On October 9, Song Mino uploaded a handwritten apology to his personal social media account, marking his first post since March 23, 2023. The unexpected update drew considerable attention, particularly because it came after the singer received a suspended prison sentence for violating South Korea’s Military Service Act.
In his letter, Song Mino began by expressing regret over the controversy. “I sincerely bow my head and apologize for causing so many people concern because of my actions,” he wrote. “I should have addressed the situation much sooner, but I have waited far too long. I am sorry for making everyone wait for such a long time.”
He continued by apologizing directly to young men who are faithfully fulfilling their mandatory military duties, as well as the fans who have supported him throughout his career.
“Above all, I am deeply sorry for disappointing the young men who are diligently carrying out their military service, as well as the fans who have cherished me more than anyone else,” he stated. “Every day has been filled with prolonged regret.”
Song Mino also acknowledged his past behavior, writing, “I feel ashamed of and disappointed in the irresponsible choices I made. I will not avoid my foolish mistakes, and I will sincerely reflect on them.”
The WINNER member concluded his apology by promising to take responsibility for his actions and fulfill any remaining obligations.
“I will faithfully carry out the remaining procedures and responsibilities,” he wrote. “I will never forget this incident, and I will keep it deeply engraved in my heart as I strive to live with a greater sense of responsibility.”
The apology followed a court ruling on October 1, when Judge Sung Joon Gyu of the Seoul Western District Court’s Criminal Division 10 sentenced Song Mino to one year in prison, suspended for two years, on charges including violations of the Military Service Act.
Song Mino had served as a public service worker at a facility affiliated with the Mapo-gu Facilities Management Corporation in Seoul from March 2023 to December 2024. He was accused of being absent from work without legitimate justification for a total of 102 scheduled working days during his service period.
While Song Mino’s apology drew significant attention, another controversy emerged after actor Byun Yo Han left a public comment beneath the singer’s post.
Rather than writing a message, Byun Yo Han simply commented with three heart emojis, “♥♥♥,” and liked the apology post. His gesture was widely interpreted as an expression of encouragement and support for Song Mino.
However, the actor’s reaction quickly became a topic of debate online. Some netizens questioned whether publicly showing affection toward someone recently convicted of violating military service regulations was appropriate, particularly given the sensitivity surrounding mandatory military service in South Korea.
Critics argued that Byun Yo Han’s supportive gesture appeared inconsiderate toward those who have faithfully completed their military duties. Others viewed the comment as a personal expression of support rather than an endorsement of Song Mino’s actions.
The timing of Byun Yo Han’s comment further intensified the discussion, as Song Mino had only recently received a suspended prison sentence following the investigation into his repeated unauthorized absences during public service.
Although Song Mino has now publicly acknowledged his mistakes and pledged to reflect on his actions, the controversy surrounding his military service continues to attract scrutiny. Byun Yo Han’s brief but highly visible reaction has also become part of the wider debate over how celebrities should respond when their acquaintances become involved in legal scandals.
Sources: Nate