FTISLAND To Promote As A Duo In South Korea But With Choi Min Hwan Overseas, Hongki Gains Immense Backlash For The Reasoning

FTISLAND’s Choi Minhwan will continue activities overseas.

According to a report by Herald POP on March 3, FTISLAND’s domestic activities will be carried out by only two members, Lee Hongki and Lee Jaejin. However, all three members, including Choi Minhwan, will participate in overseas activities.

Lee Hongki addressed this issue during his fan meeting on March 2. He stated, “There are many people who feel uncomfortable about this in Korea, and while everyone has different opinions, I believe we should respect that. We will ensure he reflects more. Someday, we hope to return as a three-member group in Korea.”

He continued, “I can somewhat predict what you might say, but we have made up our minds. The most important thing is that FTISLAND needs a drummer. If he had done something truly unforgivable, we wouldn’t even consider this, but since perspectives on the matter differ, we believe we need a drummer. That’s why we will firmly continue FTISLAND as a duo for now.”

He also added, “FTISLAND needs a skilled drummer. I feel deeply sorry for causing unnecessary concerns. At the end of last year, we faced a major crisis, but thanks to you, we overcame it. I won’t talk about this anymore. The decision is now yours. I’m truly sorry, but I still hope we can enjoy our time together. We will do our best.”

Meanwhile, Choi Minhwan married former LABOUM member Yulhee and had three children, but they announced their divorce in December 2023. Choi Minhwan was granted custody of their children. However, in October of the same year, Yulhee exposed details of their marriage, including messages between Choi Minhwan and a hostess, causing significant controversy.

Hongki’s explanation for why Minhwan would join group activities overseas has gained a lot of backlash from netizens who accused him of trying to downplay the gravity of the allegations.

Source: (A)