Moon Won denies past misconduct allegations amid marriage news with Koyote’s Shinji
Moon Won, left, fiance of Koyote member Shinji, right, speaks during a YouTube broadcast. Captured from Shinji's YouTube channel
Singer Moon Won, who recently announced his engagement to Koyote group member Shinji, has spoken out amid controversy over allegations about his past.
While he admitted to engaging in real estate work without a broker’s license, he denied claims of name changes, infidelity and bullying during his school years and military service.
In a lengthy social media post shared Thursday, Moon admitted to some missteps while firmly denying others.
The controversy erupted after a video interview featuring Moon was released on Shinji's YouTube channel on Wednesday. In it, Moon made remarks that were widely criticized by fans of both Koyote and Shinji.
“I sincerely apologize to Koyote fans, Shinji’s supporters, and everyone who felt uncomfortable or disappointed because of my careless behavior,” Moon wrote. “I especially regret causing hurt to Shinji, who should be receiving only love and congratulations at this time. As her future partner, I deeply reflect on my words and actions.”
He continued, “After reading the comments following yesterday’s radio broadcast, I realized how thoughtless I had been. I failed to consider how those closest to Shinji would feel. I also extend my apologies to Kim Jong-min and Baekga for my disrespectful attitude.”
Moon acknowledged one of the allegations — engaging in real estate dealings without a licensed broker certification — as true. “It is correct that I worked with a real estate office despite not having a broker’s license,” he wrote. “During a period when I was struggling financially, I started the work at the suggestion of an acquaintance. I now recognize that this was wrong and take full responsibility. I offer no excuses and sincerely apologize to those I’ve disappointed.”
However, he denied accusations that he bullied others during his school years and military service. “Claims that I bullied classmates or junior soldiers are completely untrue,” he said. “If necessary, I’m willing to provide objective evidence to prove my innocence.”
Moon also addressed rumors about infidelity during his previous marriage. “It is true that I got married due to a premarital pregnancy,” he said. “But I want to state clearly that I was not in a relationship with anyone else during that time. The cheating allegations are not true.”
Singers Moon Won, left, and Shinji / Captured from Shinji's YouTube channel
He further clarified speculation about changing his legal name. “Park Sang-moon is my real name,” he wrote. “I only changed my stage name — from Giryeon to Moon Won. I’ve never legally changed my given name.”
Moon concluded the post with another apology: “I am deeply sorry for causing concern. I reflect on my shortcomings and vow to live with greater responsibility alongside Shinji.”
Shinji and Moon are planning to marry in the first half of next year and recently completed their wedding photo shoot in Seoul.
The couple met when Moon appeared as a guest on MBC Standard FM’s program “Singles and Smiles,” which Shinji hosted. They began dating shortly afterward and have been in a relationship for more than two years.
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.