Shinee’s Minho apologises over marathon controversy
K-pop star Choi Minho has apologized following controversy over his performance in the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon. Critics questioned whether he received prohibited physical assistance from a pacemaker during the race, leading Minho to decline the official result.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the intersection of celebrity culture and professional sports integrity, sparking public debate over adherence to athletic regulations.
Footage of Minho at the JTBC Seoul Marathon on Nov 1 shows a man believed to be his pacemaker running behind him and placing a hand near his waist and back.
PHOTOS: CHOIMINHO_1209/INSTAGRAM, THE KOREA HERALD/ASIA NEWS NETWORK
Listen Summarise Choi Minho of Shinee apologised after videos from his first full marathon raised questions over possible banned physical help during the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon. He finished in 3:00:18, missing a sub-3 time by 18 seconds, but later said he would not officially accept the result out of respect for other runners. Minho said he felt “deeply ashamed” and promised to be more careful, while the marathon organisers have not yet commented. AI generated
SEOUL – K-pop star Choi Minho from boy band Shinee apologised on Nov 3 after footage from his first full marathon sparked debate over whether he had received prohibited physical assistance during the race.
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