Allegations against Winner's Song Min-ho set off Seoul-wide review of social service duty

Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon has ordered a review of social service agents working under the Seoul city government, following allegations that Song Min-ho of the K-pop group Winner neglected his duties when assigned to such a role as part of fulfilling his mandatory military service.

On Tuesday, Mayor Oh addressed the matter in a Facebook post, stating, “Recently, allegations have been raised that a celebrity was negligent in performing his social service duties. I have ordered an emergency comprehensive review into the performance of social service agents."

Oh added that strict measures will be taken based on the investigation. Acknowledging that most agents carry out their duties diligently, he expressed concern that the negligence of a few can create feelings of unfairness among those who show commitment to their assigned roles.

Social service is an alternative to military service for those deemed unfit for active duty for certain reasons, which can include physical and mental conditions. Song was assigned to social service duties in March last year and was discharged on Nov. 23.

The allegations against Song were reported by Korean media outlet Dispatch on Dec. 17, claiming that he neglected his responsibilities as a social service agent.

While Song’s agency, YG Entertainment, denied those claims on the same day, the Military Manpower Administration is currently investigating the matter. The Seoul Mapo Police Station has also received complaints and is conducting a preliminary investigation.