FT Island's Choi Min-hwan Withdraws from GMF Amid Prostitution Allegations
FT Island's Choi Min-hwan Withdraws from GMF Amid Prostitution Allegations
FT Island's Choi Min-hwan (32), who is facing allegations of prostitution, will not participate in the Grand Mint Festival (GMF).

FNC Entertainment, the agency representing FT Island, announced on the night of the 25th, "We inform you that FT Island member Choi Min-hwan will not be participating in the 'Grand Mint Festival 2024' scheduled for November 2 at Olympic Park."

They further explained, "The drum position, which Choi Min-hwan was responsible for, will be replaced by a session musician. Other FT Island members (Lee Hong-gi, Lee Jae-jin) will perform as planned, delivering the prepared setlist without any disruptions."

The GMF organizers also stated, "For FT Island's performance on November 2, we have discussed with the agency and will proceed with the stage prepared by replacing member Choi Min-hwan with a session musician. We will promptly notify you of any additional developments."

Previously, Choi Min-hwan's ex-wife, Yul-hee, revealed on her YouTube channel 'Yul-hee's House' on the 24th that Choi Min-hwan's visits to certain establishments were the reason for their divorce. Yul-hee disclosed recordings that included allegations of Choi Min-hwan's visits to such establishments and prostitution.

Particularly, Choi Min-hwan mentioned 'motel' and 'toothbrush,' along with payment details, further substantiating the prostitution allegations. He asked, "I haven't paid yet, right? How much should I pay?" When a nightclub employee mentioned 2.38 million won, Choi Min-hwan requested, "Please send the account and amount via Telegram."
FT Island's Choi Min-hwan Withdraws from GMF Amid Prostitution Allegations
FT Island's Choi Min-hwan Withdraws from GMF Amid Prostitution Allegations
FNC Entertainment stated, "It is difficult for us to fully understand personal matters related to marital issues," but added, "Choi Min-hwan intends to suspend all media activities, including broadcasting." Choi Min-hwan has stepped down from KBS2's 'The Return of Superman' and played drums behind the scenes at FT Island's Taiwan concert. He will also not attend GMF.

Reporter Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr