SHINee's Minho apologizes over physical support allegations during marathon: 'I feel deep shame'
Minho of SHINee has apologized after footage of him allegedly receiving physical assistance during a marathon circulated online.
According to The Korea Herald, the K-pop idol, whose name is Choi Min-ho, participated in the 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon on Nov. 1, where he finished in three hours and 18 seconds.
"Missed sub-3 by 18 seconds. Still, it was such a valuable experience. Life is a marathon," he wrote in his now-unavailable Instagram post. Sub-3 refers to finishing a full marathon under three hours.
After the race, videos of Minho during the marathon circulated, in which he is seen running alongside a man, who is believed to be his pacer, placing his hands at the back near the waist of the K-pop idol, which appears to be giving physical support.
According to World Athletics rules, physical support from another athlete (except when being helped back up to their feet) that helps a runner move forward in a race is strictly prohibited.
Social media users are divided over whether he should be disqualified, with some demanding accountability and others dismissing the matter as a non-issue.
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On Nov. 3, Minho conveyed his apologies, saying he feels "deep shame."
"Hello, this is Minho of SHINee. I apologize for disappointing so many people at the marathon I took part in on November 1. Everything happened because of my own shortcomings, and as someone who loves and cherishes sports, I feel deep shame," he wrote on his Instagram post, as translated by K-media outlet Soompi.
Minho also expressed that he doesn't accept the result of the marathon.
"I, too, will not accept the result of this marathon, and I will not forget the lessons I have learned through this process. I want to express my respect to all the runners who work hard and pour out so much sweat," he continued.
"Once again, I apologize for causing you concern. I will be more careful so that something like this never happens again, and I will work to always show you my best self," he concluded.
The 2026 JTBC Seoul Marathon drew 30,000 participants, including 100 elite athletes. The event featured a 10K course from Mapo District's World Cup Park to Yeouido Park, alongside a full 42.195-kilometer marathon spanning from Gwanghwamun to Olympic Park in Songpa District.
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