Lee Hong Ki has once again stirred speculation over his stance on former FT Island member Choi Min Hwan, who is currently embroiled in a prostitution scandal.
FT Island performed as a duo on November 2nd at the Grand Mint Festival 2024 in Olympic Park, Songpa District, Seoul. This marked the group’s first performance as a two-member act since Choi Min Hwan’s departure following the allegations.
During the set, Lee Hong Ki addressed the crowd, saying, “I’ve been thinking a lot about what to say while playing music today. I felt really down. It felt like the world was unjustly out to get me, but thank you. I’ll keep doing music until I die. Thank you.”
While it remains unclear if Lee’s reference of “unjustly out to get me” was a direct defense of Choi Min Hwan, many fans have interpreted it as an expression of frustration over the backlash the group has faced. Previously, Lee Hong Ki had defended Choi on Instagram posting, “What if it’s not solicitation or an adult venue? Can you take responsibility for what you’re saying?”—a comment that led to further backlash.
On September 29th, FT Island’s label officially announced that the group would continue temporarily as a duo consisting of Lee Hong Ki and Lee Jae Jin.
Meanwhile, Choi Min Hwan is under police investigation for allegations of soliciting prostitution. Legal experts suggest that if proven guilty, he could face penalties greater than a fine.
>> Lee Hong Gi’s Defense of Choi Min Hwan Draws Backlash Amid Solicitation Claims
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