FT Island’s drummer Choi Min-hwan is currently under investigation by Gangnam Police following allegations of soliciting prostitution, according to police confirmation on Friday. The inquiry was launched after a complaint was filed through “e-people,” a national petition platform under the Anticorruption and Civil Rights Commission, citing potential violations of the Act on the Punishment of Arrangement of Commercial Sex Acts.
The allegations surfaced when Choi’s ex-wife, Yulhee, formerly of the girl group La Boum, shared a video on her YouTube channel on Thursday. In the 37-minute video, Yulhee claimed that Choi regularly visited prostitution establishments and provided audio recordings of conversations between Choi and an individual allegedly involved in organizing such services. The recordings were reportedly taken from July to August 2022.
Following the video’s release, a citizen complaint was filed, leading police to initiate an investigation into both Choi and an alleged intermediary linked to the accusations. The case marks a sensitive issue as Choi and Yulhee, who married in 2018, divorced in December 2022 after five years of marriage, during which they had three children. Choi currently has custody of their children, including a son and twin daughters.
Yulhee addressed her motivations for releasing the video, mentioning the online criticism she has faced since the divorce, with some accusing her of neglecting her children. “I have received hurtful comments and criticism,” she shared. However, she clarified that despite her feelings toward Choi’s alleged actions, she believes he has not wronged their children. “He has a stable home and family support, and the children are happy,” she said, explaining her decision to relinquish custody.
In response to the controversy, Choi’s agency, FNC Entertainment, issued a public apology on Friday, acknowledging the disappointment felt by fans and viewers. The agency confirmed that Choi would be withdrawing from all media activities, including appearances on KBS 2TV’s The Return of Superman, where he had shared his experiences as a single father.
Meanwhile, FT Island is scheduled to perform in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, on Saturday as part of the band’s “Pulse in Asia” tour marking their 17th anniversary. Choi’s involvement in the concert remains uncertain amid the ongoing investigation.
The case highlights complex personal and legal challenges as Choi faces scrutiny not only from the public but also from authorities. The unfolding situation may impact FT Island’s current tour and Choi’s role within the band as the investigation continues.
Sayart / Kelly.K, pittou8181@gmail.com
