[SC Issue] BTS and Taecyeon Refused Special Treatment… Song Min-ho Joins T.O.P, Ravi, and Se7en in ‘Military Service Scandal’ Disgrace
Song Min-ho from the group WINNER has been embroiled in allegations of inadequate military service. On the 17th, accusations surfaced that Song Min-ho, currently serving as a social service agent, did not properly report to his assigned workplace at the Mapo Resident Welfare Facility and manipulated his attendance records.
Regarding this, his agency, YG Entertainment, stated, “We find it difficult to confirm the detailed information related to the artist’s service. However, we confirm that the sick leave was used in accordance with regulations and that the reason was the continuation of treatment that began before his service.”
The facility also stated, “He served in accordance with regulations.”
Song Min-ho began his military service last March but attended his sibling’s wedding in the US a month later in April, which was controversial as he maintained long hair, a style not possible if he had been in basic training. YG explained, “He left the country through formal procedures. He was classified as exempt from basic military training after review by the Military Manpower Administration.”
However, more images showing him with dyed long hair surfaced last April, leading to further public criticism. Due to these previous charges, the public views Song Min-ho’s inadequate service allegations with skepticism. The Military Manpower Administration also started fact-checking regarding these allegations.
Besides Song Min-ho, several other celebrities have faced controversy related to military service. Former VIXX member Ravi falsified a medical condition claiming epilepsy to be exempted from service. Though initially sentenced to one year in prison with a two-year probation, he is facing another trial as the prosecution appealed, potentially leading to re-enlistment as an active-duty soldier based on the outcome.
Rapper Nafla from Ravi’s label Groovl1n also attempted to evade military duty by not reporting to work properly during his social service citing depression. He received a sentence of one year and two months in prison with probation and resumed military service.
T.O.P from BIGBANG was initially dismissed from his position for smoking marijuana while undertaking police duty, resulting in restarting his service as a social service agent. Allegations include using a significantly higher amount of sick leave than other soldiers in the same jurisdiction and not providing necessary medical certifications.
Se7en faced criticism after being seen visiting a massage parlor while serving as an entertainment soldier in 2013.
In contrast, some celebrities are being praised for exemplary military service. Taecyeon from 2PM gave up his US permanent residency, which exempted him from military service, to enlist voluntarily. Despite having a herniated disc that resulted in a lower physical health grade, he underwent surgeries to qualify for active duty, successfully completing his service.
BTS, known as K-pop representatives, were suggested for exemption or alternative service due to their contributions on international platforms like the UN Assembly. However, they declined these offers and chose to serve. Starting with Jin, BTS members are enlisting one by one, with several earning top soldier titles due to their devotion.
By Ji-eun Baek, Sports Chosun Reporter