Choi Minhwan Confesses to Regular Visits to Entertainment Venues During Police Interrogation

Choi Minhwan Cleared of Prostitution-Related Charges Due to Insufficient Evidence

Recent findings from an investigation reported by Sports Kyunghyang reveal that Choi Minhwan, a member of the popular band F.T. Island, has been exonerated from allegations linked to the Act on the Punishment of Acts of Prostitution Arrangement due to a lack of substantial evidence.

The Allegations and Investigation

The case stemmed from accusations that Choi Minhwan had contacted an individual associated with an entertainment venue, referred to as Person A, in the early hours of July 9, 2022, in Seoul’s Nonhyeon-ro district. It was alleged that he inquired about locations for prostitution and made a payment to an unidentified woman for sexual services.

The police’s investigation discovered that during their phone conversation, Choi Minhwan and Person A used terms commonly associated with adult entertainment such as “table fee” and “ladies.” This prompted police to infer that Choi was seeking information about entertainment venues rather than specific establishments for prostitution.

Key Testimonies

In his defense, Choi Minhwan stated, “I have inquired with A and frequented entertainment establishments, but I have never engaged in prostitution, nor do I even recall visiting the mentioned establishments.” This assertion was supported by Person A, who clarified that their discussion revolved around entertainment venues rather than prostitution.

Ultimately, authorities found that a recorded conversation between Choi Minhwan and Person A did not provide enough evidence to substantiate the claims of prostitution. Moreover, the absence of supplementary proof further corroborated their statements.

The Role of Yulhee

Choi Minhwan’s ex-wife, Yulhee, a former member of the girl group LABOUM, was initially responsible for bringing the allegations to light. However, she chose not to cooperate with the police and did not provide the original recordings that were crucial to the investigation.

The authorities also found insufficient grounds to proceed with a case regarding Choi Minhwan’s alleged sexual harassment of Yulhee, as she declined to attend questioning, prioritizing the emotional well-being of their children and expressing her disinterest in further legal action.

An Unfolding Narrative

On October 24, Yulhee released recordings on her YouTube channel that she claimed demonstrated Choi Minhwan’s regular visits to entertainment venues, which she asserted were pivotal in their divorce. The recordings included dialogues about “shirt rooms,””karaoke bars,”and discussions surrounding fees and the booking of a particular motel.

Additionally, Yulhee accused Choi Minhwan of inappropriate behavior during their marriage, stating, “He would grope me or stuff money into my chest in front of our family. At the time, I didn’t comprehend this behavior, but I later recognized it as habitual drunken misconduct.”

Closure of the Case

The investigation by the Seoul Gangnam Police Station ensued after a complaint was raised by a citizen via National Sinmungo, a public petition platform. On November 29, the police closed the case without filing any charges against either Choi Minhwan or Person A.

Following the conclusion of the investigation, Choi Minhwan stepped back from his variety show commitments and temporarily suspended activities with F.T. Island. In a statement released on November 30, he expressed regret over how the situation had escalated, characterized by one-sided allegations and misinformation. He apologized to his fans and fellow band members.

On December 18, Choi Minhwan took to the Weverse platform to address his supporters, firmly declaring, “I have never engaged in prostitution. The hotels and motels mentioned in the recordings were places I visited alone at the time to be by myself. I regret that there is no definitive evidence to prove my innocence, and for that, I’m truly sorry.”

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