Choi Minhwan Reveals: Yulhee’s Childcare Neglect, Financial Demands, and Frequent Home Absences

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the tumultuous events leading to the divorce between Yulhee and Choi Minhwan.

August 1, 2021: Yulhee Leaves Home

On August 1, 2021, following a heated argument regarding her excessive sleeping habits, Yulhee packed her belongings and left the family home. This conflict, which escalated from a disagreement over her napping duration, included Yulhee verbally insulting Choi in the presence of his mother. In an attempt to resolve the matter, Choi reached out to Yulhee’s mother, but later that evening, she took their eldest child and sought refuge at her parents’ house for ten days.

August 10, 2021: Conversation After Nine Days

Exactly nine days later, the couple engaged in a text conversation where Yulhee acknowledged her wrongdoing in cursing during the confrontation with Minhwan’s mother. However, the exchange revealed underlying challenges, as Minhwan expressed dissatisfaction regarding Yulhee’s domestic contributions and her sleepiness following a visit from a friend.

Choi Minhwan’s Concerns About Yulhee’s Sleeping Patterns

In an explosive interview with Dispatch, Choi Minhwan shared his feelings about Yulhee’s sleeping habits, revealing that she often slept for as long as 18 to 20 hours a day. He described the frustrations that accompanied addressing her sleep schedule, stating this led to her leaving home over twenty times during their five years together. Choi lamented, “Who could endure this?”

When questioned about the possibility of Yulhee’s sleep patterns being a coping mechanism for stress, Minhwan clarified that they had a childcare assistant and extensive family support, dismissing the idea that he had unreasonable expectations of her involvement in household chores, such as cooking or cleaning.

Minhwan Voices Concerns to His Manager

On the same day that Yulhee departed their home, Minhwan expressed his discontent to his agency manager via text. He highlighted Yulhee’s neglect in childcare duties, stating, “She doesn’t change a single diaper or care whether the kids have eaten. Honestly, she just sleeps all day.” This message underlined their growing domestic discord, with Minhwan detailing that her sleeping habits interfered with family life.

March 28, 2023: Ongoing Issues Regarding Yulhee’s Habits

Choi Minhwan reached out to Yulhee, expressing frustration over their lack of meaningful interaction due to her continuous sleeping. Speaking to Dispatch, he noted, “That day, Yulhee just kept sleeping. She didn’t wake up no matter how much I tried,” revealing a troubling cycle of conflicts centered around her sleep patterns.

August 25, 2023: Another Departure

On August 19, 2023, Yulhee left once more, remaining absent for about a week before returning home late on the 26th, inebriated. She issued an apology and vowed, “I’ll never leave home again.” Amid their familial distress, especially following the death of their long-time pet, the couple faced pressures compounded by the impending FT ISLAND concert scheduled for the following day.

August 26, 2023: The Decision to Divorce

Despite Yulhee’s assurances to stay, her pattern of leaving re-emerged shortly thereafter. This led Choi Minhwan to conclude that their marriage could not continue; he struggled with their differing lifestyles, stating, “While I was putting the kids to bed, she was putting on makeup and leaving the house at night.”

December 3, 2023: Discussing Divorce Terms

In a tense Kakaotalk conversation, Minhwan articulated the fundamental incompatibility of their personalities and lifestyles, asserting, “Neither of us was going to change.” He revealed his financial sacrifices, including covering Yulhee’s taxes and living expenses.

Yulhee’s Legal Counterattack

On December 4, 2023, Yulhee filed for mediation at the Seoul Family Court, demanding custody changes, a substantial property division, and monthly child support payments. The detailed claims included 1 billion won in property divisions and a significant alimony request.

Allegations Against Choi Minhwan

Yulhee’s mediation request made grave accusations against Minhwan, alleging involvement in inappropriate activities and attributing the marriage breakdown to his actions. She asserted, “The marriage broke down entirely due to his fault,” claiming that he caused her both mental and physical suffering.

Choi Minhwan’s Defenses

In response, Choi Minhwan clarified the nature of his recent outings, explaining that his visits to a karaoke bar were mischaracterized, asserting, “It’s not a prostitution establishment; I have never engaged in any illicit activity.” He acknowledged that while he struggled with their problems, he was not responsible for their divorce.

Rejection of In-Law Mistreatment Claims

Choi vehemently denied Yulhee’s claims of mistreatment by his family, emphasizing their supportive role throughout much of their relationship. He expressed confusion about her allegations, as his parents had been instrumental in helping with childcare.

Property Division Dispute

Yulhee’s request for 1 billion won in property division brought further complications, particularly concerning assets accumulated during their marriage. Minhwan clarified that he had purchased the primary residence prior to their union and argued that she had not provided financial contributions during their time together.

Financial Responsibilities Assumed by Minhwan

Choi Minhwan took responsibility for significant financial penalties on behalf of Yulhee, including a 125 million won penalty due to her prior commitments, alongside loans made to support her family and tax payments for her earnings.

Custodial Controversies Post-Divorce

While initially agreeing to shared custody, Yulhee later asserted that she had been the primary caregiver for their children, claiming that Choi was often absent due to his career. Choi disputed this statement, insisting on his active involvement in their care and education.

Locations and roles of care remain a focal point in the ongoing divorce discussions, as attempts to reach Yulhee for comment went unanswered, with this report reflecting statements from both parties and available mediation details.

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