On the 24th, the first trial of Yoo Ah-in and his acquaintance Choi Mo was held at the Seoul Central District Court’s Criminal Division 25-1. They were charged with violating the Narcotics Control Act for illegal use of psychotropic substances.
The prosecution has requested a sentence of 4 years in prison, along with a 2 million won fine (equivalent to 1,444 USD) and a surcharge of 1.54 million won (equivalent to 1,112 USD) for Yoo Ah-in on this day.
Yoo Ah-in has been accused of multiple offenses, including breaking the Narcotics Control Act by using psychotropic substances, smoking marijuana and soliciting it, destroying evidence, violating the Medical Act, and committing fraud.
In addition to being sentenced to four years in prison, Choi was found guilty of violating the Narcotics Control Act (marijuana), the Aggravated Punishment for Specific Crimes Act (retaliatory threats), and aiding and abetting a criminal.
The prosecution explained the rationale for the sentence, stating that the defendant, a well-known celebrity, had repeatedly acquired illicit medical narcotics worth 500 million won (approximately 361,000 USD) by manipulating doctors with their wealth and professional status. These drugs were then administered abroad through a private network. As a highly-regarded public figure, not just an actor, who has made significant statements on societal matters, the defendant holds a considerable level of social responsibility. However, rather than fulfilling this responsibility, they used their influence to conceal their illegal actions.
“Their crimes were described as especially heinous, as they abused their social status to silence individuals, assisted acquaintances in fleeing overseas, and showed disregard for the Korean legal system.”
Despite this, Yoo Ah-in’s defense attorney admitted to the propofol injection charges, but argued that they were necessary for treating mental illnesses, such as depression, anxiety disorders, and sleep disorders, based on professional medical judgement.
The lawyer stressed that he had no previous history of committing similar offenses that resulted in anything more than a fine. He also acknowledged that he had let down his supporters and colleagues who had worked with him and promised that he would never engage in such behavior again.
Yoo Ah-in personally delivered a final statement, expressing his deep reflection and sincere apology for his involvement in the incident. He specifically apologized to his family, colleagues, and fans who were impacted by his wrongdoings, and humbly bowed his head.
As a result of this incident, I have had the opportunity to reflect on my entire life. I am committed to living as a more mature and responsible individual. I am grateful to those who have guided me with firm guidance and kindness. I would like to extend my sincere apologies to anyone who may have been let down by my actions, and to those who were hurt or impacted by them. Regardless of the consequences, I am determined to repay the love and support of those who hold me dear and make a greater contribution to society.
Despite not knowing the outcome of my punishment, co-defendant Choi has expressed his deep regret and constant reflection from the beginning of the investigation until the end of the trial. He remains determined to accept his punishment and work towards personal growth in order to make positive contributions to society.
Prior to this, Yoo Ah-in had been charged with repeatedly using medical propofol 181 times between September 2020 and March 2022. He was also accused of acquiring over 1,100 tablets of two different types of sleeping pills 44 times under a different individual’s name from May 2021 to August 2022. Additionally, he is facing allegations of smoking marijuana with Choi and three others in the U.S. in January 2023 and encouraging others to do the same.
Despite admitting to some charges, such as marijuana smoking and propofol use, in previous trials, Yoo Ah-in maintained his innocence on charges of instructing others to smoke marijuana, destroying evidence, aiding in violations of the Narcotics Control Act, and fleeing overseas.
Despite the prosecution’s two previous attempts to obtain arrest warrants for Yoo Ah-in in May and September of last year, the court ultimately rejected both requests. As a result, Yoo Ah-in has been able to stand trial without being detained.
Link to Daum provided as the source.
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