FT Island performed as a duo for the first time at the 2024 Grand Mint Festival, which took place on November 2 at Songpa Olympic Park, Seoul. This performance marked the group's official comeback after Minhwan's hiatus.

Towards the end of the show, Hongki made indirect comments regarding the controversy surrounding Minhwan, stating, "Honestly, I feel very dejected. I feel like the world is picking on me unfairly, but thank you. I will continue to make music until I die. Thank you." These words subtly expressed his feelings regarding Minhwan's scandal.

The controversy escalated on October 24, when Minhwan's ex-wife Yulhee revealed in a video on her YouTube channel that Minhwan engaged in inappropriate behavior in private and frequented adult entertainment venues, shocking the public.

In response, Minhwan's representatives stated, "Although it is difficult for us to understand all the details of this personal matter, Minhwan feels a deep responsibility for disappointing the public and his viewers. He will be suspending all of his media activities, including the shows he participates in with his children."

Hongki's comments, seen as a defense of Minhwan, sparked further controversy. He said, "It was their private matter, and this is where we are. You should acknowledge your wrongdoing and apologize. However, we should not believe everything we hear so easily. I have to hold on and endure. This is what we have to do. What I can do is keep moving forward despite the obstacles."

Korean netizens expressed disappointment with Hongki, seeing him as continuing to defend Minhwan. They commented, "Didn't Hongki listen to the recordings? Minhwan is heard asking if there are any 'hostesses' available. If it wasn't such a place, what was he doing looking for a 'hostess' in the middle of the night? If you have even basic listening and reasoning skills, it should be obvious that it was an adult entertainment venue."

Reactions have been mixed, with some pointing out that even though Minhwan has acknowledged his mistakes and withdrawn from the group, Hongki continues to speak out in a way that seems to defend him, making the situation worse. "Whether this is solicitation for prostitution or not is secondary. What kind of married man with three children uses this kind of adult establishment jargon? Who's going to see that in a good light?"