Choi Min-hwan is set to resume activities through overseas performances of the group FT Island.
On Dec. 2, Lee Hong-gi spoke about future activities of FT Island at his fan meeting "HONGGI B-DAY PARTY XXX."
Previously, Choi Min-hwan suspended his activities in October of last year due to revelations made by his ex-wife, Yul-hee. At that time, Yul-hee revealed through her YouTube channel that during their marriage, Choi Min-hwan had been visiting entertainment establishments and had sexually assaulted her. Yul-hee shocked the public by stating that Choi Min-hwan had inserted money into her chest in front of family members, and had "touched my private parts in front of my mother and father and twisted my breasts."
In particular, the release of recorded conversations in which Choi Min-hwan appeared to be talking late at night with a man believed to be an employee of an entertainment establishment while looking for "an escort" sparked a significant backlash. Amid accusations of prostitution, Choi Min-hwan declared a suspension of all activities related to FT Island and media engagements.
Afterward, Choi Min-hwan was reported for prostitution charges, but last month, the Gangnam Police in Seoul determined there was insufficient evidence regarding Choi Min-hwan's violation of the Prostitution Punishment Act and his allegations of coercive sexual assault, concluding the case without further charges.
Choi Min-hwan posted a statement through a fan community platform and claimed his innocence in media interviews; however, public opinion did not easily shift.
Regarding this matter, Lee Hong-gi noted, "In Korea, we will operate as a duo (Lee Hong-gi and Lee Jae-jin), while overseas we plan to continue as a trio. I think we need to respect that many people in Korea are uncomfortable with this situation. I will reflect and prepare so that we can return as a trio in Korea someday."
Lee Hong-gi explained Choi Min-hwan's resumption of activities, saying, "This was a decision we reached after much consideration. We decided that a drummer is essential for FT Island. If I had truly committed an unforgivable mistake, I would have chosen another path, but I believe this issue can have different perspectives for different people."
Additionally, Lee Hong-gi stated, "We will continue to protect FT Island as a duo going forward. I don't know how many people will accept this, but we will follow our path. If it's uncomfortable, we can consider activities as a session even when we're on the same stage."
Finally, Lee Hong-gi remarked, "I apologize for the concerns caused by this controversy. My mental state was greatly shaken, but I was able to gather my thoughts with the help of many people," and added, "I will not speak further on this issue. The final judgment rests with the fans."
[Photo] OSEN DB, SNS
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