According to the prosecution, Song served as a social service agent at facilities in Mapo-gu, Seoul, from March 2023 to December 2024. During this period, he was absent without official approval for a total of 102 days – equivalent to roughly one-quarter of his required working days. Even on days he reported for duty, investigators allege he stayed for only short periods and spent most of his time playing games rather than performing assigned tasks.

“The defendant failed to carry out actual duties due to prolonged unauthorized absences,” prosecutors stated in court, arguing that such conduct undermines the fairness of the mandatory service system applicable to all able-bodied South Korean men.

 

Also standing trial alongside Song is his former supervisor, identified only by his surname Lee, who faces charges of negligence and alleged complicity in falsifying attendance records. However, Lee has firmly denied all accusations, claiming he had no involvement in Song’s absences.

 

Dressed formally in a suit, Song openly acknowledged all charges brought against him. In his final statement, he expressed deep remorse, saying, “As someone who receives so much love from the public, I am deeply sorry for showing such an embarrassing side instead of setting a good example.”

 

While his legal team noted that he had been suffering from bipolar disorder, panic attacks and physical health issues at the time, Song emphasized that these conditions should not be used as excuses. “If given the opportunity to resume service, I will fulfill my duties faithfully until the end,” he said.

 

The court has scheduled the next hearing for May 21 to review additional evidence, and a date for the final verdict will be announced at a later time.

 

The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting the strict legal standards applied to public figures regarding national service obligations in South Korea.

Source:(1)