Choi Jong Hoon will be leaving FTISLAND.

On March 14, his agency FNC Entertainment shared the following statement:

It was decided today that Choi Jong Hoon, who has evoked criticism with involvement in a recent series of incidents, will be leaving FTISLAND.

Our agency would like to make it clear that there was no intention to hide or cover up the truth regarding these matters. Previously, based on our relationship of mutual trust, we checked with him on what he remembers regarding the past incidents before releasing statements. We express deep apologies for causing confusion by releasing inaccurate statements through this process.

There are additional suspicions regarding illegal acts although he says he does not remember them, so he will diligently receive a police investigation sometime this week. Choi Jong Hoon has decided to leave the team forever and will retire from the entertainment industry.

The agency realizes the severity and feels responsibility for these matters, and we will fully cooperate with the police investigation process so that the truth can be clearly identified.

Choi Jong Hoon expresses his apologies to those who received harm due to his inappropriate and embarrassing words and actions in the past. He is also deeply reflecting on the disappointment he has given to many fans and the members of his team. The agency expresses our deep apologies for being inattentive in managing and teaching proper character to our artists and for causing trouble to many people due to an unfortunate matter.

Choi Jong Hoon will now halt celebrity life and live while reflecting on himself. The agency also cannot avoid responsibility regarding Choi Jong Hoon’s words and actions that cannot be forgiven by society, so we will guide him until the end towards living as a member of society with an upright perception.

[The agency] once again promises to be more thorough and strict in our management and education of all artists. We apologize.