FT Island's Lee Hong-gi Addresses Dating Rumors with Japanese Top Model on 'Radio Star'

FT Island's Lee Hong-gi made a cryptic statement regarding dating rumors with a top Japanese model.

On the October 16th episode of MBC's variety show 'Radio Star,' guests included actor Jang Keun-suk, FT Island's Lee Hong-gi, TXT's Soobin, and comedian Kim Shin-young.

During the show, Lee Hong-gi shared that despite being a pioneer of the Hallyu wave in Japan, he also faced backlash, revealing, “I was listed in a Japanese magazine as one of the top 10 Koreans disliked by Japanese people.” He mentioned that others on the list included figure skater Kim Yuna, the late Samsung chairman Lee Kun-hee, and independence activist Ahn Jung-geun.

Lee Hong-gi explained the reason for his inclusion, saying, “I was too honest in a Japanese broadcast. There was a segment comparing foods. They showed two pancakes and asked which looked more expensive. I tasted them and guessed correctly. When asked why one looked cheaper, I said, ‘It’s made in Japan. It’s too thick and not tasty.’”

However, Jang Keun-suk interjected, “That’s just an explanation. The dating rumor was a big deal. There are still comments about it in Korea.” Lee Hong-gi, flustered, responded, “I didn’t know she was so popular in Korea. She’s Shinozaki Ai, a gravure model.”

Lee Hong-gi continued, “I can state the facts clearly. It wasn’t true back then. We were just friends.” This raised suspicions, prompting the hosts to ask, “Back then? What about now?”

Jang Keun-suk teased, “The impact is huge. People still comment, saying, ‘Lee Hong-gi is fine because he has her.’”

Reported by Taeyuna, TenAsia youyou@tenasia.co.kr