WINNER's Song Min Ho has found himself in the spotlight for reasons outside his music career, as allegations of inadequate work performance during his alternative military service as a social service worker have emerged. However, the detailed public revelation of his personal health conditions, including panic disorder and bipolar disorder, has sparked heated debates among Korean netizens.

Allegations and Investigation

The controversy began on December 17, when a media report claimed that Song Min Ho frequently neglected his duties, allegedly signing in at the Mapo Resident Convenience Facility, smoking a cigarette, and then leaving. The Military Manpower Administration (MMA) and the police have since launched investigations, with the MMA requesting CCTV footage and attendance records.

Mr. A, the head of the facility where Song Min Ho was assigned, told Ilgan Sports on December 19 that Song Min Ho's health challenges made it difficult for him to perform duties like other workers. “He is not in a state to engage in normal activities. His body is practically subdued by medication, and his symptoms have worsened significantly during certain periods,” Mr. A stated. He also explained that Song Min Ho’s duties were modified to accommodate his severe anxiety and panic attacks, including assigning him a rest area away from public view.

Despite his health struggles, Song Min Ho is scheduled to be discharged on December 23, though the outcome of the investigation could lead to potential penalties.

YG Entertainment’s Statement

Song Min Ho’s agency, YG Entertainment, addressed the controversy with caution, stating, “We cannot confirm details related to the artist’s service. However, his sick leave and vacation were used in accordance with regulations and as extensions of his ongoing treatment.”

Public Outcry Over Health Disclosure

While some netizens criticized Song Min Ho for allegedly failing to fulfill his duties, others expressed deep concern over the public exposure of his personal health information, calling it an unnecessary and cruel invasion of privacy.

Netizens’ Reactions:

• “It’s truly cruel for all this information to be revealed in such detail.”
• “Celebrities seem glamorous, but this shows how lonely and exposed their lives can be.”
• “With conditions this severe, he should have been exempt from service. The problem isn’t him but the system forcing people like him to serve.”
• “Dispatch is trash for spreading such private details.”
• “This is so sad… Please stop exposing him like this. Let the investigation conclude first.”
• “If his health was this bad, why wasn’t a discharge or exemption considered? This feels like a systemic failure.”

Some netizens also pointed out the broader issue of military service requirements for individuals with severe health conditions. Others speculated on the situation, highlighting the need for balance between accommodating health concerns and fulfilling service responsibilities.

Broader Implications

Song Min Ho’s case sheds light on the complexities faced by public figures navigating military service obligations, particularly those with severe health conditions. It also raises ethical questions about how much of a celebrity’s personal life should be made public, especially in sensitive situations like these.

As the investigation continues, many fans and netizens hope for a fair resolution while calling for greater respect for Song Min Ho’s privacy and health.