Kang Seung-yoon Supports Song Mino During “Inadequate Military Service” Controversy

On November 19, Kang Seung-yoon marked a significant milestone as he completed his military service. To celebrate this momentous occasion, he penned a touching handwritten letter to his fans via Weverse, expressing heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering support throughout his time in service.

In his message, Kang reflected on the shared journey with fans, stating, “The struggles and triumphs that WINNER and you have shared until now gave me the strength to push past my limits… The experiences I’ve gained have fortified me, and I eagerly anticipate crafting new stories together.”

Regarding WINNER’s much-anticipated return, he expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “After a brief return to everyday life, my focus will shift to completing around 10 songs for our upcoming 2024 goals. I am determined to create even better music and embrace every opportunity to connect with you. I’ll soon be back, alongside Jinwoo, Seunghoon, and Mino! Flowers will be waiting for you! I love you, Inner Circles.”

However, Kang Seung-yoon’s optimistic outlook is juxtaposed with the ongoing scrutiny involving Song Mino, due to controversies surrounding his military service. Mino, who initiated his alternative service at the Mapo Facilities Management Corporation on March 24, 2023, later transitioned to the Mapo Resident Welfare Center, amidst questions about his association with the site’s manager.

According to a report from Dispatch, the publication received allegations regarding Mino’s insufficient attendance. They reportedly visited the location multiple times without spotting him on duty. Significant concerns were raised when Mino allegedly traveled to Hawaii for a six-day vacation in late October and missed work from November 11 to 15. In response, the welfare facility clarified, “He was on medical leave, utilizing vacation days, and had been hospitalized.”

Meanwhile, YG Entertainment, Mino’s agency, stated, “We are unable to disclose specifics regarding the artist’s service. However, the medical leave was in line with ongoing treatment predating his enlistment. Other absences were taken in compliance with regulations.”

Kang Seung-yoon enlisted in June 2022, serving actively until his discharge on November 19, making him the only enlisted member among WINNER.

Here is Kang Seung-yoon’s complete letter to fans:

To our Inner Circles,

On a hot summer day, I left your side filled with a mix of unease about a new life and bittersweet emotions about concluding an intense first chapter. That day remains fresh in my memory. Like you, it was my first time being away from you for such an extended period, and I frequently worried about the physical distance between us.

Throughout my service, I cherished every moment of love and encouragement sent through Weverse, letters, and social media. That unwavering support enveloped me in daily comfort, enabling me to engage fully in a meaningful military experience. Without your steadfast encouragement, enduring this journey with a smile wouldn’t have been possible.

While I may not have voiced it frequently, during moments of challenge that tested my endurance, it was your light that illuminated the path forward. The struggles and victories that WINNER and you have shared culminated in the strength I needed to surpass my limits. Thanks to your support, I was a joyful soldier, embraced by my comrades.

The lessons and experiences I’ve gained have significantly empowered me, and I am excited to forge new narratives from this growth. Following a brief respite, I’ll channel my energy into finalizing approximately 10 songs aimed at achieving our 2024 aspirations, striving for even greater musical excellence. I will also take every chance to reconnect with you.

Thank you for being patient, for missing me, and most importantly, for showering me with love. I want to express my deepest gratitude, and I long to show you my appreciation. Although I wished to share this moment with you briefly, please understand my desire to hold back my excitement until we are together with all the members. I will return soon, hand in hand with Jinwoo, Seunghoon, and Mino! I will bring you flowers! I love you, Inner Circles.

Take care of yourselves—eat well, sleep well, and rest fully! I love you immensely.

Always yours, Kang Seung-yoon.

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