Lee Kyung Kyu, a prominent South Korean TV personality, has been summarily indicted on charges of driving under the influence of medication, according to legal sources on October 22 KST.
The Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office filed a summary indictment on October 21, requesting a fine of 2 million KRW (approx. $1,500 USD) against Lee for violating the Road Traffic Act.
The incident took place in June, when Lee mistakenly entered and drove someone else’s car in a parking lot due to a mix-up by the parking attendant. After the car owner reported the incident as a suspected theft, Lee underwent a police investigation.
A preliminary drug screening showed a positive result, which was later confirmed by the National Forensic Service (NFS). The detected substances matched medication Lee had been prescribed for panic disorder.
CCTV footage showed Lee walking unsteadily near the vehicle, further raising public concern and media attention. After gathering witness testimonies, CCTV footage, forensic results, and conducting interviews with Lee, police determined that his condition fell under the legal definition of drug-impaired driving.
Under Article 45 of Korea’s Road Traffic Act, it is prohibited to operate a vehicle if one is under the influence of drugs or medications that may impair driving ability.
Lee stated that he was unaware that driving after taking the prescribed medication was illegal, and issued a public apology. He was referred to the prosecution without detention in July.
Recently, Lee addressed the incident himself on a broadcast, expressing remorse and saying,
“These days, I’ve become a lot more humble.”
At another public appearance, he remarked:
“I’ve been through some personal ups and downs. That’s why I’m giving everything I’ve got to my work right now.”
Despite the controversy, Lee has continued his entertainment activities while acknowledging his mistake.
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