WINNER’s Song Mino has broken his silence following his conviction for violating military service laws, sharing a handwritten apology letter on his social media on October 9.
According to Koreaboo’s report, the letter opens with the rapper writing, “I bow my head and sincerely apologize for causing concern to many people because of me.” He acknowledged the delay in speaking up, adding, “I should have clarified my position sooner, but it’s too late now. I’m sorry for making you wait for a long time.”
Mino reserved his deepest regret for those he felt he had let down most, writing, “Above all, I am very sorry for disappointing the young people who are fulfilling their military duties and my fans who have cared for me more than anyone else.” He added, “I have regretted every day. I am ashamed and hate my past irresponsible choices.”
The letter comes eight days after his October 1 sentencing, when the Seoul Western District Court handed him one year in prison with a two-year probation for 102 days of unauthorized absence during his social service duty at a Mapo-gu facility. The court called the absence a serious offense but weighed his admission of guilt, remorse, ongoing psychiatric treatment, and clean record.
His co-defendant Lee, a service management official, received a 10-month suspended sentence and filed an appeal on October 6.
Mino closed the letter by pledging, “I will sincerely fulfill the remaining procedures and obligations.” No additional official statement was reported.
