Lee Hong-gi Faces Backlash for Defending Choi Min-hwan Amid Prostitution Allegations

Oct 27, 2024

Lee Hong-gi Faces Backlash for Defending Choi Min-hwan Amid Prostitution Allegations



As FT Island's Lee Hong-gi again defended Choi Min-hwan amid allegations of soliciting prostitution, fans’ disappointment has continued to grow.

Following FTISLAND’s Asia Tour “2024 FTISLAND LIVE ‘PULSE’ IN ASIA” concert in Kaohsiung, Taiwan on the 26th, Lee Hong-gi expressed gratitude to fans, saying, “Thank you very much. My best friend gave me a lot of energy today. I think it’s great that we can meet in person and share the stories we wanted to tell.” He added, “I’ll also speak with friends who will meet us in the future. It’s better to meet and talk openly rather than communicate through text. Thank you so, so much!!”

However, there has been criticism regarding Lee’s response to the allegations involving Choi Min-hwan. When the accusations first emerged, Lee defended Choi, saying, "This is their personal life, and while it’s essential to apologize and take responsibility when wrong, we shouldn’t jump to conclusions too quickly. I must protect my friend and stand by them, no matter what. All I can do is move forward, even if others throw rocks."



In response, some fans questioned Lee’s stance. One commented, “What if this isn’t trafficking or prostitution? Can you be responsible for what you’re saying?” Fans expressed disappointment, viewing Lee’s response as defensive of Choi Min-hwan. Some fans commented on his social media, saying, “If the facts are clear, you should think about the fans and stay quiet,” and “It’s good to support your friends, but some actions are crossing the line.”

Many of Lee Hong-gi’s comments were subsequently deleted, but his actions regarding Choi Min-hwan have left an indelible impression.
Lee Hong-gi Faces Backlash for Defending Choi Min-hwan Amid Prostitution Allegations
Meanwhile, Choi Min-hwan married former girl group member Yul-hee in 2018, and the couple had three children before divorcing in December last year. As public curiosity around the reasons for their divorce grew, Yul-hee addressed it on her YouTube channel, revealing that she had relinquished custody, which sparked further discussion.



In released transcripts, Choi allegedly made remarks suggesting requests for certain services. One line reportedly reads, “Do you have a girl?” to which an acquaintance replied, “You have to wait an hour or two to make a choice.” This content has fueled suspicions of his involvement with illicit services.

olzllovely@sportschosun.com