Shinji’s agency addresses allegations against fiance Moon Won

Singers Moon Won, left, and Shinji / Captured from Shinji's social media

The agency representing Shinji, a member of the co-ed group Koyote, has responded to growing allegations about her fiance, singer Moon Won, clarifying the facts and asking the public to give the couple space.

In a statement released Tuesday, JG Star Entertainment, Shinji’s agency, addressed the controversy surrounding Moon Won’s behavior and past.

“We do not take the recent allegations and criticisms lightly,” the agency said. “Moon Won has expressed deep remorse over the inappropriate remarks and behavior raised by viewers, particularly for failing to show respect to Shinji and other Koyote members in recent public appearances.”

The agency referenced Moon’s apology regarding a YouTube program in which his demeanor was criticized, noting he had acknowledged his “immaturity” and admitted to hurting those around him, including Shinji.

It said that the sudden announcement of the couple’s engagement had brought unexpected attention, which Moon struggled to navigate while juggling broadcast schedules, contributing to his lack of composure in the public eye.

“We have observed Moon’s consistent respect and love toward Shinji over time,” the agency said. “The couple supports each other as any ordinary couple would. When Shinji first shared her plans to marry, we congratulated her wholeheartedly.”

The statement added that Moon had vowed to work on his shortcomings and that Shinji herself was approaching the situation with a heightened sense of responsibility, asking for “time and warmth” from the public.

JG Star also provided specific clarifications regarding some of the rumors:

In response to claims that Moon conducted real estate transactions without a license, the agency said they confirmed with the agency he worked for at the time that he was officially registered as an assistant broker with the local government and had completed relevant training under the Korea Association of Realtors.

Regarding allegations of school bullying and harassment during military service, the agency said they contacted former classmates and military colleagues, all of whom said the claims were false. “Given these testimonies, we find no credibility in these accusations,” the agency said.

On the issue of his previous marriage and alleged infidelity, the agency said Moon underwent an amicable divorce with no misconduct involved. “There is no evidence to support claims of a double relationship. His ex-wife has also sent words of support for their future together.”

The agency said it is prepared to pursue legal action against continued dissemination of false information. “Since the couple’s engagement was made public, unverified rumors have circulated. We will take all necessary measures to protect our artist, including legal responses to defamation or false claims.”

Shinji and Moon Won are set to marry in the first half of next year. The couple developed their relationship after Moon appeared as a guest on an MBC Standard FM’s program, which Shinji hosted. They have been dating for over two years and recently completed a wedding photoshoot in Seoul.

This article from the Hankook Ilbo, a sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by a generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.