Choi Min-hwan Addresses Prostitution Allegations After Being Cleared

Choi Min-hwan, former member of FTISLAND, has once again clarified his stance regarding the recent allegations of prostitution after being cleared of any wrongdoing. On December 18, he took to the fan communication platform Weverse to express his feelings, stating, "I want to say something to my beloved fans, regardless of my agency. Being part of a company and a group makes me feel like I have too much to protect beyond my own position."

He continued, "As reported in the media, I have never engaged in prostitution, and the case was dismissed due to insufficient evidence. How can I prove something I didn’t do? This has left me with little to say. The hotels and motels mentioned in the recordings were places I went to because I wanted to be alone, and I find it hard to ask you to believe that. I wish there were clear evidence, but unfortunately, there isn’t. I apologize for not having a way to explain or defend myself."

Choi Min-hwan emphasized, "I just want you to know that I am truly innocent. I have no intention of hiding or running away."

Following his statement, netizens raised questions about his claims, particularly regarding his visits to hotels and motels. One user questioned, "What about asking for two of each item? Don’t you know how to make a reservation alone?" Choi responded, "I don’t know what ‘xx’ and ‘yy’ refer to, but if it’s about my condition and toothbrush, I’ve been tied down for a long time, and I don’t need condoms. I keep my toothbrush clean wherever I go, so why the curiosity?"

This marks Choi Min-hwan's second public declaration of his innocence regarding the prostitution allegations. After being cleared of charges, he broke his silence on November 29, expressing regret over the situation. He stated, "Given the one-sided claims and falsehoods from my ex-wife, Yulhee, and the numerous distorted speculations that spread as if they were facts, I felt that hastily revealing my position without any results could worsen the situation. I thought it was essential to manage the situation well, especially for the sake of my three children."

He also offered a heartfelt apology to his fans and fellow members, saying, "I sincerely apologize for the distress and difficult times I have caused. I deeply regret my actions and am genuinely reflecting on them. I bow my head in apology for disappointing you. I will strive to show a more responsible and mature side in the future."

As Choi Min-hwan continues to assert his innocence, there is growing interest in whether he will return to FTISLAND, from which he had temporarily stepped back.

Choi Min-hwan and Yulhee, who began a secret relationship during their idol days in 2017, eventually married. They welcomed their first son in May the following year and held a formal wedding in October. The couple later had twin daughters, creating a happy family, but shocked fans when they announced their divorce in December of last year.

In October, Yulhee made explosive claims on her personal YouTube channel, alleging that Choi Min-hwan frequented entertainment establishments during their marriage and had sexually assaulted her. She described incidents where he allegedly behaved inappropriately in front of their family.

The fallout from Yulhee's accusations severely impacted Choi Min-hwan's image as a 'single dad.' Following the release of videos containing allegations of prostitution and sexual assault, netizens filed complaints with the National Police Agency. However, the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul concluded the investigation with a ruling of no charges due to insufficient evidence.

In related news, it was revealed that singer Younha purchased Choi Min-hwan's house for 3.8 billion won. This house was where he lived with Yulhee and their three children, and it was featured on the KBS2 show 'Salim Namja.' According to property records, Younha bought the house in August, and the ownership transfer has been registered.

Choi Min-hwan stands to gain significantly from this sale, having purchased the original single-story house for 1.25 billion won in 2015, which he then demolished to build a multi-family residence. He reportedly took out a loan of 800 to 900 million won and invested 200 to 300 million won of his own funds, resulting in a profit of approximately 2.5 billion won.