SHINee’s Minho has broken his silence on the marathon fairness controversy that erupted after his first full marathon — admitting his mistake and saying he feels “deeply ashamed.” In a social media statement on November 3, the idol apologized for disappointing fans and said he does not accept his own race result.
SHINee’s Minho (Credits: Koreaboo)
SHINee Minho Apologizes Over Marathon Pacemaker Controversy
Minho completed the 42.195 km full marathon at the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon, held at Sangam World Cup Park on November 1. After the race, a video spread online showing a man presumed to be a pacemaker placing his fingers on Minho’s waist as if pushing him forward. Since marathon records must be completed solely by the runner’s physical ability without external physical assistance, the footage sparked a heated fairness debate.
In his apology, Minho wrote: “I am sorry for disappointing many people in the marathon I participated in on November 1. Everything happened due to my own shortcomings, and as someone who cherishes and loves sports, I feel deeply ashamed.” He continued, “I will be more careful to ensure that this does not happen again and will always strive to show you a better side of me.”
Minho Rejects His Own Marathon Result
Crucially, Minho made clear the apology was not just words: “I do not accept the results of this marathon myself, and I will not forget the lessons I learned through this process.” He closed with respect for fellow runners: “I send my respect to all the runners who pour countless drops of sweat and work hard.”
The controversy cuts deeper precisely because Minho is known as one of K-pop’s most athletic idols, with a genuine love for sports that fans have followed for years. By refusing to stand behind his finish and owning the mistake outright, he appears to be working to rebuild the trust that made him a fan-favorite runner in the first place.
Also Read: SHINee’s Minho Embroiled in Unexpected Controversy After First Marathon — Pacemaker Push Sparks Debate; 2026 K-Pop Year-End Shows Guide: MAMA Awards, Gayo Daejeon Schedules, Lineups and Nominees
Source: Koreaboo — read the full story there.
