On July 2, comedian Lee Kyung Kyu was referred to the prosecution without detention on charges of driving under the influence of prescribed medication, the Gangnam Police Station announced today.
According to the police, Lee is suspected of violating the Road Traffic Act by operating a vehicle on June 8 in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam District, while under the influence of prescribed medication. A preliminary drug screening test returned positive, and this result was confirmed by the National Forensic Service. Following the confirmation, Lee was summoned for investigation on June 24 and has since cooperated fully with authorities.
Lee’s legal representative, Attorney Jung Gu Seung stated to Xports News that although they had not received formal notification from the police, it appears that Lee was referred to the prosecution without detention. He added that the defense team submitted a written opinion explaining that the drug-related controversy had been exaggerated and detailing mitigating circumstances surrounding the case.
Attorney Jung also explained that in preparing the statement, the defense reviewed medical research showing that combining cardiovascular medications with drugs prescribed for panic disorder may pose risks, information not commonly known to the public. This point was clearly included in the opinion submitted to the police.
Lee has publicly acknowledged taking prescribed medication for panic disorder, a condition he has managed for approximately ten years under medical supervision. He expressed regret, stating that he was not fully aware that driving after taking such medication was prohibited.
According to Article 45 of the Road Traffic Act, driving under the influence of drugs or substances that impair normal driving ability is prohibited. Even prescribed medications can lead to charges if they affect concentration or cognitive function and thereby compromise driving safety.
The Gangnam Police confirmed that Lee’s case has been forwarded to the prosecution for further legal proceedings without detention.
SEE ALSO: Lee Kyung Kyu apologizes over drugged driving allegation “I was careless”
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