FTISLAND's Choi Min-hwan Denies Prostitution Allegations

Choi Min-hwan of the band FTISLAND has publicly denied allegations of prostitution, stating, "I have never engaged in such activities." This statement comes 56 days after his ex-wife, Yulhee, made the accusations. On December 18, he addressed fans on the community platform Weverse, saying, "I want to say something to my beloved Prima (the fandom name) without any company affiliation." He expressed the challenges of being part of a group, noting, "There are many things to protect, and as reported by the media, I have not engaged in prostitution. How can I prove something I did not do when there is insufficient evidence?"

Choi explained that he visited the hotels and motels mentioned in the recordings because he wanted to be alone, and he found it difficult to ask for belief in his innocence. He added, "I wish there were clear evidence, but unfortunately, there isn't. I apologize for not having a way to explain or defend myself. I just want you to know that I am truly innocent, and I have no intention of hiding or running away."

Choi Min-hwan married Yulhee, a former member of the girl group LABOUM, in 2018 after a private relationship, and they welcomed a son and later twin daughters. However, the couple separated last year after five years of marriage, with Choi gaining custody of their children. Yulhee alleged in an October 24 video on her YouTube channel that Choi frequented entertainment establishments during their marriage and behaved inappropriately in front of family.

Following the controversy, Choi suspended his activities through his agency. FTISLAND continued as a duo with vocalist Lee Hong-ki and bassist Lee Jae-jin, while a session musician filled in for Choi during performances. The Gangnam Police in Seoul, which received a complaint through the National Petition System, investigated Choi but concluded on December 4 that there was insufficient evidence to support charges of violating prostitution laws or sexual assault, thus closing the case without prosecution.