SEVENTEEN's Mingyu faces scrutiny over alleged travel during military service

Photos circulating on social media allegedly showing SEVENTEEN member Mingyu in Spain have sparked controversy regarding his military service. Mingyu began fulfilling his national duties as a social service agent on September 10.

Netizens have raised questions concerning the regulations for traveling abroad while serving. While some users pointed out that enlisted personnel are not strictly banned from international travel, they noted that such trips require strict permission and adherence to specific rules. Critics have questioned how the idol could be abroad so shortly after enlistment, comparing the situation to the difficulty regular citizens face when requesting leave.

PLEDIS Entertainment and Mingyu have not yet issued an official response to the rumors. Some social media users have noted that other photos being shared, such as those of him surfing, may be older images.