Seoul’s Mayor Initiates Investigation Following Military Service Controversy
Oh Se Hoon, the mayor of Seoul, has launched a citywide inspection of social service workers amid allegations involving WINNER’s member, Song Mino, concerning his attendance during required military service.
Context of the Investigation
In a detailed post on his Facebook account, Mayor Oh emphasized the need for accountability among social service personnel to uphold their responsibilities within the community. He articulated that the recent controversy surrounding Mino’s military attendance raised significant concerns that warranted immediate action.
Mayor’s Commitment to Integrity
“While I am confident that the majority of personnel carry out their duties in their assigned positions, I also believe that we must prevent the negligence of a minority from triggering a sense of disgruntlement,” Oh stated, underscoring the critical role of maintaining high standards in public service.
Measures to Enhance the System
In response to the findings that may arise from this investigation, the mayor has pledged to implement stringent measures and propose enhancements to the overarching social service framework to the Military Manpower Administration.
Background of the Controversy
The scrutiny into Mino’s attendance stemmed from allegations that he had taken sick leave on his final day of duty while reportedly manipulating his attendance records with assistance from a community center worker. This prompted the Military Manpower Administration to commence an investigation last Tuesday, culminating in Mino’s discharge a week later.
Agency’s Defense and Legal Context
YG Entertainment, Mino’s management agency, has refuted the claims, asserting that the artist’s sick leave was warranted for medical treatment. This position was further supported by a community center employee who confirmed that Mino had complied with his military duties despite facing health challenges.
According to South Korean law, all able-bodied males must complete a minimum of 18 months of compulsory military service. For those who fail the active service physical qualification but lack severe health issues—like Mino—there exists an alternative: serving as social service workers with assignments lasting 21 months in public institutions.
Related Articles:
WINNER’s Mino Faces Military Service Violation Charges, Potential Re-Enlistment Ahead
8:06
WINNER Members Complete Military Service After Mino’s Recent Discharge
20:01
WINNER’s Mino Exonerated in Controversy Over Misrepresentation of Military Service Attendance by Director
2:09
Leave a Reply