Veteran comedian Lee Kyung-kyu was formally indicted Wednesday on charges of driving under the influence of drugs, Seoul prosecutors announced.
According to the Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office, Lee was found to have driven his vehicle last month while impaired by an over-the-counter sedative prescribed for insomnia. You risk possible penalties, including fines, license suspension or imprisonment.
Prosecutors say Lee Kyung-kyu, 63, consumed more than the recommended dose of a sleeping pill and went behind the scenes. wheel of his SUV late one evening in late September. Police stopped him after observing erratic driving near Itaewon District. A roadside sobriety test revealed signs of impairment and a subsequent blood test confirmed the presence of the drug at levels above the legal limit. Lee was released on bail after questioning and claimed he did not realize the drug could affect his driving ability.
Investigators reviewed traffic camera footage that showed Lee’s vehicle crossing lane lines multiple times. Witnesses reported that the car swerved and braked sharply, prompting the emergency services to be alerted. No other vehicles or pedestrians were involved in the crash and Lee was not injured. Authorities point out that impairment due to prescription drugs carries similar legal liabilities as alcohol-related crimes under South Korea’s traffic law.
Court documents specify that Lee was prescribed the drug by a general practitioner to help manage sleep disorders following a recent health check. According to police statements, the dose administered to Lee exceeded the amount prescribed in the drug guidelines by almost 50%. The prosecution alleges that Lee was aware of the risk warnings printed on the prescription label but chose to drive despite feeling drowsy.
Legal experts note that Lee’s high-profile status could lead to tougher judicial scrutiny. “Celebrities often face public backlash when they are involved in traffic violations, and courts may impose harsher penalties as a deterrent,” said a law professor at Korea University. A preliminary hearing in the case is scheduled for November, during which prosecutors will present evidence and witnesses.
Lee’s agency released a brief statement acknowledging the accusation and expressing his commitment to fully cooperate with the investigation. He also apologized to fans and the public for causing concern. As the legal proceedings progress, observers will be watching closely to see whether Lee Kyung-kyu’s legacy in the entertainment industry will withstand this challenge.
