Meanwhile, in late 2004, just as he was getting ready to start shooting another high-profile TV drama Sad Love Story, it was revealed that the actor had illegally avoided his compulsory military Service by submitting tainted urine samples that suggested he was suffering from certain illnesses and was thus unfit for the army. Amidst the press coverage and scandal this aroused, Song agreed to immediately serve his two-year term in the military. Song was discharged on November 15, 2006 with the rank of Corporal, to much fanfare and media attention. For a time he kept a low profile, trying to gauge public opinion on his return to the entertainment world.