WINNER member **Mino** (Song Min-ho) has come under intense online scrutiny following his first court appearance on April 21, 2026, where his noticeably **gaunt and fatigued look** sparked widespread mockery from netizens. The 33-year-old rapper and singer faced charges for violating South Korea’s **Military Service Act** after allegedly skipping **102 days** of his mandatory public service duty, leading prosecutors to demand an **18-month prison sentence**.

Mino, a key member of the YG Entertainment boy group WINNER, began his alternative military service as a public service worker in March 2023 at a facility in Seoul’s Mapo District. He was supposed to complete the required period until December 2024. However, authorities discovered through GPS records and other evidence that he had been absent without proper authorization for a significant portion of his service — totaling 102 days. This breach triggered a formal investigation and indictment, drawing heavy criticism from the public who view military service as a serious civic duty in South Korea, especially for male celebrities.

During the first hearing at the Seoul Western District Court, presided over by Judge Seong Jun-kyu of the 10th Criminal Division, Mino appeared alongside a supervisor identified as “A,” who is also accused of failing to properly oversee his service. Dressed in a simple black suit, Mino reportedly bowed to reporters outside the courthouse and offered a brief apology, stating, “I am sorry for disappointing so many people.” Inside the court, he admitted to all the charges against him. The prosecution pushed for an 18-month prison term, arguing that the extended absences were intentional and constituted a serious dereliction of duty. A final verdict has not yet been issued, and discussions continue regarding whether Mino might be required to re-enlist to make up for the lost time.

Photos from the trial, published by Korean media outlets such as Star Today and MK, quickly circulated online. Many headlines and captions described Mino as looking “**gaunt**” (thinned out or haggard), with a tired facial expression, less polished styling, and noticeable changes in his overall appearance compared to his usual charismatic stage presence. Some observers noted his hair looked unkempt, while others commented that he appeared older or heavier in certain areas despite the “gaunt” label. These images became the focal point of harsh online commentary, particularly on community forums like **theqoo**.

Netizens did not hold back in their reactions. Many expressed sarcasm and disbelief toward the media’s use of the word “gaunt,” with comments such as “Did the meaning of ‘gaunt’ change or something?” and “He looks 50…” Others criticized the situation more broadly, saying things like “He couldn’t endure the time that others push through with patience, so he ruined his celebrity career” and “Because of him, I can’t watch the new season of *New Journey to the West* anymore. Why couldn’t he just pull through?” Some mocked his appearance directly with remarks about his hair, weight gain, or suggesting the article was intentionally written to provoke backlash. A few even questioned whether the reporter was “setting him up for dragging.”

The mockery reflects deeper public frustration with Mino’s case. In South Korea, evading or improperly performing mandatory military service often carries severe social and professional consequences for public figures. Many netizens viewed Mino’s actions as a betrayal of trust, especially since WINNER had already faced challenges as a group, and fans had been anticipating his return to activities. The scandal has also affected perceptions of related entertainment projects, with some fans expressing disappointment over potential impacts on variety shows Mino previously appeared on.

This is not the first time Mino has dealt with controversy. In the past, he has faced other public issues, though the military service violation stands out as particularly damaging due to its direct connection to national duty. Prior to the trial, he was spotted attending a VIP premiere of the film *Method Acting* in March 2026, where he kept a low profile with a mask and hat. That appearance also drew criticism, including from his friend actor Lee Dong-hwi, who publicly clarified that he had not personally invited Mino to the event.

Mino’s agency, YG Entertainment, has remained relatively quiet on the latest developments, though the group’s activities have been limited in recent years. WINNER debuted in 2014 and gained popularity with hits like “Empty,” “Really Really,” and “Fool.” Mino has also built a solo career as a rapper, producer, and variety star, known for his distinctive voice, artistic talent, and appearances on shows like *New Journey to the West*. However, the ongoing legal troubles have cast a shadow over his future prospects in the industry.

As the trial progresses, the case highlights the strict cultural expectations surrounding military service in Korea. Celebrities are often held to higher standards, and even partial absences can lead to significant backlash and potential career setbacks. Some supporters have called for understanding, noting the pressures idols face, but the majority of online discourse remains critical.

The harsh focus on Mino’s physical appearance during the trial also points to a broader trend in K-pop fan culture and online communities, where every public outing of a celebrity is scrutinized. While some defended him by arguing that the “gaunt” description was exaggerated or unfair, the overwhelming response amplified the negativity.

Mino now awaits the court’s final decision, which could range from a suspended sentence to actual imprisonment or a requirement to redo portions of his service. In the meantime, the incident serves as a cautionary tale about accountability in the entertainment world. For many fans who once celebrated his creativity and stage energy, the current situation has left a bitter taste, mixing disappointment over his choices with pity or ridicule over his visible fatigue.

Whether Mino can rebuild his image after this chapter remains uncertain. His brief apology at the courthouse acknowledged the disappointment he caused, but regaining public trust will likely require more than words — especially in an industry where military service controversies have ended or severely damaged many careers before.