FTISLAND’s Choi Min-hwan and former LABOUM member Yulhee / Courtesy of KBS
By Pyo Kyung-min
Drummer Choi Min-hwan of the K-pop band FTISLAND and former LABOUM member Yulhee have decided to part ways after five years of marriage, as confirmed by Choi’s agency, FNC Entertainment.
In a statement released on Monday night, the agency revealed, “The two decided to divorce after careful consideration, and are in the process of arranging the divorce,” adding, “Choi has agreed to have custody of the three children.”
Choi himself also shared the news via his social media.
“I regret to inform you of the news I’m sharing after such a long time isn’t positive. I’m approaching this with care as it involves a difficult decision,” wrote Choi.
“After lengthy discussions, my wife and I have mutually agreed to bring our marriage to an end. I apologize to all of you who supported and witnessed our journey in building a family at a young age.”
He further expressed gratitude and apologies to his family, team members and fans, promising to do his best as a father and to share positive updates in the future.
Yulhee also addressed the divorce on her social media.
“After much time, we have decided to support each other’s separate paths. Our journey as a couple concludes here, but we remain committed as the mother and father of our children. Both of us are actively caring for and maintaining communication with the children to the best of our abilities,” she wrote.
“After much contemplation, we’ve decided that the father will take care of the three children.” she added, emphasizing the careful consideration given to the children’s well-being. “We believe it’s right for them to remain in the familiar space they’ve known, minimizing practical problems and psychological anxiety. I’m also dedicated to spending quality time with my children to ensure they don’t feel their mother’s absence,” she explained.
Yulhee concluded with a plea for understanding, saying, “I was concerned that the news might come across as sudden and disappointing despite your support. Making better choices for each other’s happiness is never easy, so please view it with a warm gaze.”
The relationship between Choi and Yulhee became public in September 2017 when they openly admitted they were dating. Yulhee left LABOUM, following the revelation of the romantic relationship.
In May 2018, the couple’s son was born and they subsequently tied the knot in October of the same year. At the time of their marriage, Choi and Yulhee were 27 and 22, respectively.
In 2020, the couple expanded their family with the birth of twin daughters.
They appeared on KBS’s entertainment program “Mr. House Husband” and Channel A’s “Oh Eun-young’s Golden Clinic” to share updates. During their appearance on “Oh Eun-young’s Golden Clinic,” they openly discussed their differing ideas on financial matters and parenting values.
