WINNER fans received bittersweet news today as YG Entertainment announced a comeback concert but with one key absence, Mino. The rapper will not participate in the concert due to controversy surrounding his alternative military service.
YG confirmed this, stating that the performance will proceed with three members: Yoon, Jinu, and Hoony.
WINNER’s Comeback Concert in July
On May 7, YG Entertainment released an official statement to confirm WINNER’s comeback concert.
YG Entertainment is planning to hold a WINNER concert in July 2025, marking the group’s first concert in approximately 3 years and 3 months. As it will be a long-awaited reunion with fans and a performance to celebrate WINNER’s comeback, we have secured the concert venue far in advance and have been meticulously preparing to deliver a high-quality stage.
YG
The label acknowledged that the decision to proceed without Mino was not made lightly. In the statement, YG said:
However, it is true that we went through much deliberation over whether to proceed with the concert. Nevertheless, reflecting the firm will of the members who longed to meet their fans, and above all, for the fans who have waited so long for WINNER’s stage, we have decided to go ahead with the concert as scheduled.
This upcoming performance will feature three members, YOON, JINU, and HOONY. As this was not an easy decision, we kindly ask for your warm support and encouragement.
YG
Since all members completed military service last year, YG’s chief Yang Hyun Suk announced that the group will reunite for a tour. It appears WINNER will continue activities and the upcoming tour without Mino.
Controversy Surrounding Mino’s Alternative Service
Just days before his scheduled discharge, Dispatch exclusively reported that Mino had been skipping work and getting preferential treatment from the supervisor due to his celebrity status. As per the news media outlet, the K-pop star would show up to work late, sign attendance papers in bulk, and leave without carrying out any of the assigned duties.
According to coworkers at his Seoul workplace, he would report to duty late, citing his “medication regimen” as the reason for his late arrival. They alleged that he frequently missed work and, when present, he would play games or rest.
In March, Mino admitted to negligence during alternative service and not faithfully fulfilling his duties. If convicted of unauthorized absences during his service, Mino could face severe penalties. Under military law, the consequences may include up to three years imprisonment or mandatory additional service (calculated as 5x the number of days missed).
Meanwhile, the concert in July 2025 marks WINNER’s first full-group performance since their last activities in 2022. All WINNER members completed military obligations by the end of 2024, with Mino and Kang Seungyoon the last members to be discharged.
