South Korean prosecutors have requested an 18-month prison sentence for Song Min-ho, also known as Mino of the K-pop group WINNER, over allegations that he neglected his duties during his alternative mandatory military service.

The request was made Tuesday during the first hearing of the case at the Seoul Western District Court. Prosecutors argued that the singer failed to properly carry out his responsibilities while serving as a social service agent at a public facility in western Seoul between March 2023 and December 2024.

According to the prosecution, Song was absent from his assigned workplace for more than 100 days—though not consecutively—raising serious concerns about his commitment to fulfilling his national duty. Officials claimed that the frequency and duration of these absences effectively amounted to a failure to complete his service obligations.

In South Korea, all able-bodied men are required to complete at least 18 months of military service as part of the country’s national defense system. While some individuals serve in active-duty military roles, others—due to health or other qualifying conditions—are assigned to alternative forms of service, such as working as social service agents in public institutions.

Song Min-ho was assigned to such alternative service, but prosecutors contend that he did not meet the required standards. During the hearing, they emphasized that his repeated absences undermined the integrity of the system and warranted legal consequences.

Appearing in court, Song admitted to all the charges brought against him. The artist expressed remorse for his actions, acknowledging that he had failed to meet public expectations.

“As a person who is loved by many, I feel sorry for showing an embarrassing side of myself instead of setting an example,” he said during the proceedings.

He also addressed his personal struggles, revealing that he has been dealing with bipolar disorder and panic disorder. However, he made it clear that he does not consider these conditions to be excuses for his behavior.

Song further appealed for leniency, stating that he would be willing to serve again if given another opportunity. “If given an opportunity to serve again, I wish to faithfully fulfill it until the end,” he told the court.

The case has drawn significant public attention, not only because of Song’s celebrity status but also due to the sensitivity surrounding military service in South Korea. Compliance with mandatory service is considered a serious civic duty, and public figures are often held to particularly high standards.

Legal experts note that while it is not uncommon for individuals to face penalties for failing to fulfill service requirements, high-profile cases such as this tend to attract widespread scrutiny. The court’s final decision could set an important precedent regarding accountability for alternative service violations.

As the trial continues, both fans and the general public are closely watching how the situation unfolds. For Song Min-ho, the outcome could have lasting implications for both his career and public image.

The court is expected to deliver its ruling at a later date.