FT Island member Minhwan finds himself at the center of a prostitution controversy, prompting a lawyer to step in to shed light on the situation.

On October 30, lawyer Lee Go Eun spoke on YTN News FM's program 'Wise Radio Life' to discuss the recent charges against Minhwan, who was accused of soliciting prostitution services at adult establishments.

Lee reviewed the audio recording released by Minhwan's ex-wife Yulhee, where he is heard asking for help booking a place to stay, explicitly mentioning motels and hotels. The lawyer questions the morality of these requests, especially when Minhwan was supposed to be spending time with his family.

She explains that employing hostesses is legal in some entertainment establishments, such as karaoke bars, and does not constitute prostitution. However, she notes that prostitution involves a sexual act in exchange for money, often in lodgings, which would constitute circumstantial evidence.

Lee Go Eun expressed strong suspicions of prostitution, pointing out that the amounts of money mentioned in Minhwan's alleged messages were significant, far beyond trivial amounts. She clarified that the term 'TC' refers to the hourly rate for a hostess to serve drinks, adding that the amount mentioned exceeded 2 million KRW (approximately 1,456 USD).

She added that for Minhwan to be prosecuted on prostitution charges, direct evidence would be needed, explaining that a provision for attempted solicitation, such as simply going to a hotel, could provide a basis for attempted solicitation charges, but no such provision exists and testimony alone is insufficient.

The lawyer also notes that Minhwan seems to be well-versed in nightlife culture, which could indicate frequent experiences in that environment. She predicts that even if this was his first offense, he could face more than just a suspended charge, potentially a fine or a harsher punishment.

Minhwan and Yulhee married in 2018 and have three children. They announced their divorce last year, with custody of the children being awarded to Minhwan. Recently, Yulhee revealed details of their divorce on her YouTube channel, alleging that Minhwan had conversations with staff at nightclubs, asking to “call girls” and “book a hotel.”

Following these revelations, Minhwan left KBS 2TV's variety show 'The Return of Superman' and has since put all activities on hold. FT Island continues as a duo, with Minhwan's drummer position temporarily filled by a session musician.