Detailed Legal Analysis by Attorney Sheds Light on Potential Consequences for F.T. Island’s Minhwan Amid Controversial Audio Release by Ex-Wife Yulhee

On October 30, attorney Lee Go Eun appeared on YTN News FM’s ‘Wise Radio Life’ to discuss allegations surrounding F.T. Island member Minhwan. The idol’s ex-wife, Yulhee, recently shared an audio recording, alleging that Minhwan solicited prostitution, stirring widespread debate. Attorney Lee analyzed the recording and examined whether it could lead to legal action, especially in a case with minimal concrete evidence but significant public attention.

Attorney Comments on Evidence and Legal Boundaries in Prostitution Cases

In the released audio, Minhwan reportedly mentions reserving hotel rooms and other establishments, which Attorney Lee highlighted as morally questionable, especially given that Minhwan had been advised to focus on family time. Attorney Lee remarked:

“Rather than simply booking a woman or a particular establishment, Minhwan requested help reserving a place to stay, mentioning motels and hotels specifically.”

Lee explained that the audio’s content could suggest engagement in nightlife activities, such as karaoke bars (room salons), where hiring hostesses to serve drinks is legal. However, the attorney clarified that for a case to qualify as prostitution, there must be evidence of a monetary exchange for sexual acts, typically occurring in private accommodations.

The Role of Financial Evidence and “TC” Terminology in Determining Prostitution Allegations

One point of contention involved the money mentioned in the recording. According to attorney Lee, the amount discussed far exceeded trivial sums. Lee explained that “TC”—a term Minhwan allegedly used in the conversation—refers to an hourly fee paid to a hostess to pour drinks, a standard practice in room salons. However, Lee observed that the amount noted in Minhwan’s alleged messages reached over 2 million KRW (around 1,456 USD), a sum considered unusually high for typical hostess services.

The attorney expressed suspicion that this monetary context could support prostitution allegations, explaining:

“Prostitution would involve a sexual transaction, particularly when there is an exchange of money for sexual acts, often taking place in accommodations. This serves as a circumstantial piece of evidence.”

Despite these factors, attorney Lee concluded that the audio alone cannot substantiate prostitution charges, pointing out the lack of direct evidence required for prosecution in South Korea.

Legal Hurdles for Prosecution: Challenges of Proving Attempted Solicitation

Attorney Lee expanded on the limitations of South Korean law in prosecuting prostitution without direct evidence, noting that the current legal system lacks a provision for attempted solicitation. Lee stated:

“If there were an attempt crime provision, merely going to a hotel could be grounds for attempted solicitation charges. However, no such provision exists, and testimony alone is insufficient.”

The attorney clarified that, based solely on the audio recording, the alleged behavior falls short of satisfying the legal criteria needed to initiate prosecution on prostitution charges. However, Lee observed that Minhwan’s familiarity with nightlife terminology, as expressed in the recording, suggested extensive experience in this social scene, which may still impact public and legal perception.

Yulhee’s Allegations and Public Reaction: Insight into the Divorce and Minhwan’s Recent Career Impact

The revelations by Minhwan’s ex-wife, Yulhee, have drawn intense media attention. Married in 2018 and divorced last year, Minhwan and Yulhee share three children. Following their divorce, Yulhee retained partial custody, while Minhwan maintained significant parental responsibility.

Recently, Yulhee disclosed further details about their relationship on her YouTube channel, revealing that Minhwan allegedly conversed with nightlife workers, requesting services like “calling girls” and “reserving a hotel.” According to Yulhee:

“Discovering Minhwan’s visits to such establishments left me shocked and pieced together many unsettling incidents from our past.”

As a result of these allegations, Minhwan stepped down from KBS 2TV’s ‘The Return of Superman’, a family-oriented show that featured him with his children. His departure, followed by a suspension of all activities, has left F.T. Island functioning as a duo, with Minhwan’s drum role temporarily assigned to a session musician.

What Could Happen Next for Minhwan?

Attorney Lee concluded that Minhwan’s alleged familiarity with the nightlife industry, as expressed in the recording, may impact how authorities view his case. Although direct evidence is lacking, Lee speculated that if proven, this offense could lead to a fine or more severe legal penalties rather than a suspended indictment, even for a first offense. However, given the current evidence, prosecution may not proceed.

In light of the controversy, Minhwan’s future remains uncertain, with his musical career temporarily halted and the case drawing public scrutiny. The case highlights the intricate relationship between public perception, legal boundaries, and evidence in South Korea’s entertainment industry.

For more updates on F.T. Island’s Minhwan and ongoing developments in the entertainment industry, stay tuned to Vviptimes.