Lee Jin-ho was arrested for drunk driving. His girlfriend reported him after an argument. His career faces yet another major setback.
Just under a year after being embroiled in an illegal gambling controversy, comedian Lee Jin-ho finds himself in hot water once again. This time, the 39-year-old has been arrested for driving under the influence (DUI), and in a dramatic twist, the person who reported him to the police was none other than his own girlfriend.
The incident reportedly unfolded after the couple got into an argument while drinking in Incheon during the early hours of the 24th. The fallout from this single night has not only led to his arrest but has also cast a stark light on his recurring pattern of problematic behavior, raising serious questions about his future in the entertainment industry, which had already been hanging by a thread.
The consequences of this DUI arrest are severe and multi-layered. Immediately, Lee Jin-ho faces legal repercussions, including the almost certain revocation of his driver's license due to his high blood alcohol level. Beyond the law, the court of public opinion is likely to be far less forgiving this time around.
Source: Instagram/kdramapedia_
Lee Jin-ho Arrested for Drunk Driving
Lee Jin-ho was arrested by the Yangpyeong Police Station in Gyeonggi Province at approximately 3:23 AM on the 24th September. The charges stem from him operating a vehicle while intoxicated, driving an estimated 100 kilometers from Incheon all the way to his residence in Yangpyeong County.
The arrest was the result of a coordinated effort between police jurisdictions, after receiving a report about a drunk driver in Incheon, the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency contacted the Yangpyeong Police, who then located and apprehended him near his home.
"Lee Jin-ho did not flee at the time of his arrest, and he had no passengers with him. We received a request for cooperation and waited near Lee Jin-ho's residence to arrest him. He admitted to driving under the influence during police questioning," said a police official provided details on the arrest, quoted from Chosun Biz.
At the scene, a breathalyzer test revealed Lee Jin-ho's blood alcohol content (BAC) to be 0.11%, a level that automatically mandates license revocation. The police have also conducted additional blood tests at his request, with the results still pending as the investigation continues.
Source: Xports News
Lee Jin-ho Issues an Apology
In response to the incident, Lee Jin-ho's agency, SM C&C, swiftly released an official statement confirming the comedian's actions and offering an apology.
"After checking with him, he confirmed that he did drive drunk early this morning. He completed the investigation requested by the police station at the time of his arrest and is currently awaiting the disciplinary action," the agency stated.
The statement also included a direct expression of remorse from Lee Jin-ho himself.
"Lee Jin-ho deeply reflects on this incident, believing it to be his fault without any excuses or justifications. The agency also feels a deep sense of responsibility, and we will ensure that Lee Jin-ho faithfully carries out the disciplinary action and takes legal action," continued Lee Jin-ho agency..
This apology, however, is being met with skepticism by the public, given his recent history.
Lee Jin-ho, who debuted in 2005 on SBS's "Gag Concert," rose to prominence through popular shows like tvN's "Comedy Big League" and JTBC's "Knowing Bros." However, his career has been marred by controversy.
In October of last year, he publicly admitted to being under police investigation for illegal online gambling, which led to his departure from "Knowing Bros." That scandal was further compounded by revelations that he had borrowed significant sums of money from fellow celebrities, including BTS's Jimin, without repaying the debts.
"Even if I can't be a good example to others, I will at least live my life trying not to be someone who is pointed at by others," he had vowed at that time.
The situation concludes with Lee Jin-ho reportedly admitting to the charges during police questioning. Authorities are now delving deeper into the specifics of the incident as their investigation continues.
Source: Xports News, Chosun, Star News, News1
As a fan of K-cultue, I know reputation matters, this is so reckless.
At least he didn’t end up in a ditch, my bar patrons have better sense after a pint. Time to wise up, son.