Shinji, the vocalist of long-running co-ed K-pop group Koyote, tearfully addressed the recent controversy surrounding her fiancé Moon Won during an emotional appearance on tvN's You Quiz on the Block, which aired Tuesday.
Joined by fellow Koyote members Kim Jong-min and Baekga, Shinji opened up about her internal struggle following growing public criticism directed at her partner.
"I think the negative attention I've received lately made me reflect a lot," Shinji said, before breaking into tears.
"To me, my family is Koyote, and Koyote is Shinji. We are one."
"Comments Like 'Koyote Is Over Because of You' Hurt the Most"
The singer revealed that she reads online comments daily out of fear that her personal life might harm the group's reputation.
"Comments like, 'Koyote is over because of you,' are scarier and more painful than any other criticism," she said.
"We're strong, but I'm worried my situation might cause people to hate the members too."
Shinji, 42, expressed deep gratitude for her bandmates' support during the difficult time.
"The members always tell me, 'You have us,'" she said. "That's why I feel both strong and sorry."
Baekga also shared his affection for the group, referencing a recent photo of the trio he posted on social media.
"That picture is my phone background. I look at it every day. I realized—this is family," he said, quoting singer Lee Seung-hwan's lyrics.
Shinji's emotional remarks come amid controversy involving her fiancé Moon Won, whom she plans to marry in the first half of next year.
The two met while co-hosting MBC Standard FM's Single Bungle Show and released a duet titled Shalakadullah on June 26.
However, Moon Won has faced criticism over past revelations, including a previous marriage and a daughter from that relationship.
In a recent video on Shinji's YouTube channel, he confessed, "I've been married before and have a daughter. My ex-wife is raising her, but we're co-parenting respectfully."
The backlash intensified after viewers accused Moon Won of feigning ignorance about Shinji's celebrity status, despite his own experience in the music industry.
He was also criticized for a previous role in real estate sales without a valid license—an accusation he admitted to—while denying other allegations, including school bullying and two-timing.
On July 8, Shinji addressed the situation on Instagram, writing, "I feel heavy-hearted for burdening everyone with my personal news. But I also sincerely thank those who reminded me of the love I receive."
Despite the challenges, Shinji and Moon Won stay dedicated to their relationship. For now, the singer relies on her group of over 20 years and the fans who continue to support her.
