FTISLAND's Lee Hong-gi Speaks Out Amid Choi Min-hwan's Scandal

Oct 26, 2024

FTISLAND's Lee Hong-gi Speaks Out Amid Choi Min-hwan's Scandal
Lee Hong-gi, Choi Min-hwan, Yul-hee (from left). Sports Chosun DB



FT Island's Lee Hong-gi shared a thought-provoking message.

On the 25th, Lee Hong-gi posted on Weverse, the fan platform, saying, "This was about their personal lives, and it happened. You need to acknowledge when something was wrong, bow your head, and apologize. Still, we shouldn’t believe everything too easily."

He added, "I have to protect it again, I have to endure – that's who we are. What I can do is keep moving forward, even if I'm hit by stones."




Given the timing of Lee Hong-gi's post, it’s speculated he may be referring to Choi Min-hwan, who recently faced rumors involving personal issues disclosed by his ex-wife Yul-hee. However, it’s unclear if Lee Hong-gi’s reference to "personal lives" pertains to Choi Min-hwan and Yul-hee, or perhaps Choi Min-hwan and former member Choi Jong-hoon.

The phrases "I have to protect and endure" and "That's who we are" seem to suggest that, despite potential risks tied to individual members, FT Island’s activities will continue undeterred. Previously, Choi Jong-hoon left the band in 2019 due to his involvement in the 'Burning Sun' scandal with Jung Joon-young. Guitarist Song Seung-hyun also departed at the end of his contract that same year.
FTISLAND's Lee Hong-gi Speaks Out Amid Choi Min-hwan's Scandal
Jung Joon-young (left), Choi Jong-hoon. Sports Chosun DB
Currently, vocalist Lee Hong-gi, bassist Lee Jae-jin, and drummer Choi Min-hwan perform as a trio. However, recent allegations against Choi Min-hwan for possible solicitation have complicated team activities. Notably, during FT Island's '2024 FT Island Live Pulse' tour in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on the 26th, Choi Min-hwan played drums backstage. For the upcoming 'Grand Mint Festival 2024' in Seoul's Olympic Park on November 2, FT Island will perform without him.

Lee Hong-gi's words seem to reflect his frustration with the situation. Some speculate his warning, "Don’t believe everything too easily," could be directed at Yul-hee.
FTISLAND's Lee Hong-gi Speaks Out Amid Choi Min-hwan's Scandal
Choi Min-hwan.Sports Chosun DB
Previously, Choi Min-hwan's ex-wife Yul-hee disclosed on her YouTube channel on the 24th that his frequent visits to entertainment establishments contributed to their divorce. She also released an audio recording mentioning his entries into certain businesses, sparking rumors of potential involvement in prostitution, especially with references to motels and toothbrushes. Subsequently, the National Newspaper filed a civil complaint against Choi Min-hwan under prostitution-related charges, and the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul is investigating. Following the controversy, Choi Min-hwan withdrew from KBS2's family-oriented show 'Superman is Back.'

In response, FNC Entertainment stated, "It is challenging for us to clarify personal matters related to marital issues," adding, "Choi Min-hwan feels responsible for disappointing the public and viewers. We apologize for any inconvenience and concern caused to many people."

정빛 기자 rightlight@sportschosun.com

rightlight@sportschosun.com