Song Min-ho, a member of the K-pop group WINNER, made a rare official appearance after taking the stand as a witness in a trial related to alleged violations of the military service law. His recent status, which is clearly different from before, is drawing intense attention from the public.
"No conspiracy was involved"... Court appearance amid unauthorized absence allegations
Song Min-ho appeared as a witness at the trial held on the 14th at the Seoul Western District Court for the prosecution’s case alleging that A, a person in charge of managing social service workers, violated the military service law. Prosecutors say A intentionally turned a blind eye to Song Min-ho’s unauthorized absence of more than 100 days and alleged neglect of duty, and that there was an organized conspiracy. In response, Song Min-ho’s side is completely denying conspiracy allegations aimed at avoiding military service. Wearing a neat black suit when he arrived, he maintained silence in the face of the barrage of questions from reporters and entered the courtroom with a serious expression.
"I thought it was an AI composite"... Divergent reactions as public wrestles with a strange new look
Shortly after the press reported his courthouse appearance photos, major portal sites and online communities were abuzz over his sharp change in appearance. Netizens shared reactions such as saying they thought the photos were AI-composited images or that the stress from his lawsuit appeared to be severe. Alongside harsh criticism aimed at alleged shoddy service, the contrast with his earlier self—beloved for his distinct fashion sense and upbeat energy—has left many with a lingering sense of unease.
From topping music charts to a "variety show cheat key"... A revisit of his dazzling past
Debuting with WINNER in 2014, Song Min-ho rose to the top of the music industry by producing numerous hit songs, including "Empty" and "Really Really." He also proved his abilities as a hip-hop artist by finishing as runner-up on "Show Me the Money." In popular variety programs such as "Reborn Rich—?"—no, "Shinseo-yu-gi" and others—he made a strong showing and earned widespread love from the public. With the spotlight on that dazzling heyday now behind him and him finding himself at the center of military service controversy, attention is focused on what position he will explain in the future court proceedings.
