Comedian Lee Jin-ho has shocked the public after being caught driving under the influence again while he was already self-restraining over illegal gambling allegations.
On the 24th, his agency SM C&C said, "We are very sorry to be delivering an official statement because of this regrettable matter," and added, "After confirming with Lee Jin-ho himself, he said that he actually drove under the influence earlier this morning," which shocked many.
He complied with police questioning at the time of the arrest and is currently awaiting disposition. Earlier that day, one media outlet reported that Lee Jin-ho was caught by police after driving while intoxicated for about a 100 km stretch from Incheon to Yangpyeong. He was found to have a blood alcohol level at the level that would result in license revocation, and the police are awaiting the precise measurement results from blood tests.
Lee Jin-ho debuted as an SBS open-recruit comedian in 2005, but last year he confessed to illegal gambling, halted his activities and entered a period of self-restraint. However, having committed drunk driving little more than a year later, public disappointment has grown.
When the incident was reported, online communities and social media exploded with angry responses such as, "Gambling wasn't enough and now drunk driving — he no longer deserves the title of comedian," "Not self-restraining but another incident… I hope celebrities do not receive special treatment," "He has completely betrayed fans' trust," and "Drunk driving is a crime that can take someone's life. Severe punishment is necessary."
Ultimately, following illegal gambling and now drunk driving, Lee Jin-ho's consecutive transgressions are making the possibility of a return to the entertainment industry unclear.
Meanwhile, "Lee Jin-ho regards this incident as his inexcusable fault and is deeply reflecting on it. The agency also feels a strong sense of responsibility and will ensure that he faithfully carries out any legal punishment," the agency apologized.
[Photo] "OSEN DB
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