Korean Olympic Committee Assigns Representative to Address SHINee Minho's Marathon Controversy

The marathon controversy surrounding K-pop star Minho from SHINee has now reached the Korean Olympic Committee (KOC).

On the 4th, the KOC announced plans to assign a representative to investigate complaints received about Minho's marathon incident, just a day after his public apology.

The complaints primarily focus on two issues. First, they call for a review of Minho's continued role as a KOC ambassador. Second, they demand clarification on the '2023 JTBC Seoul Marathon' organizing committee's application of race rules, result processing, and the rationale behind Minho's Group B start placement. The KOC is expected to consult with relevant authorities on these matters. Minho has been serving as a KOC ambassador since September last year, promoting sports policies and encouraging grassroots participation.

The controversy erupted following the '2023 JTBC Seoul Marathon' on the 1st. Minho claimed to have completed his debut full marathon (42.195 km) in 3 hours, 0 minutes, and 18 seconds, posting about it on social media. However, criticism mounted after footage emerged showing another runner apparently pushing Minho's back and waist during the race.

World Athletics' 2023 technical rules, which govern the event, prohibit runners from receiving physical assistance from other competitors while advancing, except when helping fallen athletes. The Seoul Marathon is officially registered as an F-grade road race on the World Athletics competition calendar.

As the controversy escalated, Minho issued an apology via social media on the 3rd. He stated, "This incident occurred due to my shortcomings," adding, "I do not accept the results of this marathon and will not forget the lessons learned from this experience."