Chef Im Seong-keun, who is gaining popularity after appearing on Netflix's variety show "Culinary Class Wars: Cooking Class War Season 2," admitted to and apologized for habitual drunk driving in the past.
On the 19th, Chef Im posted a handwritten apology in the community section of his YouTube channel and detailed his wrongdoing in a video. In the video, Im said, "Because I liked to drink, I made a big mistake," and confessed, "Over about 10 years, I drove under the influence three times."
Regarding the circumstances at the time, Chef Im said, "After drinking, I fell asleep in my car and was caught by police," and explained, "The problem was that I was sitting there with the engine running. I later learned I should have turned it off." Im added, "The fault is entirely mine," and said, "I was criminally punished and my license was revoked, and I later obtained it again."
After it became known that Im had been caught three times for drunk driving over 10 years, criticism mounted as it contrasted with the image formed through broadcasts. As the controversy spread, Chef Im bowed his head with a handwritten apology.
Im said, "I deeply apologize to those who cared for me and cheered me on," and added, "I want to confess and sincerely apologize for the serious wrongdoing of my past that has long remained a burden in my heart." Im continued, "Drunk driving is a wrong that cannot be excused for any reason," and added, "I was legally punished at the time, and afterward I reflected and took time to look back on myself."
Im also said, "As I have recently received more love than I deserve, I felt that carrying on my activities while hiding my past wrongdoing was actually a betrayal of those who believed in me," and explained, "I decided that it was my duty to state the facts in my own words before it was too late."
Chef Im said, "I apologize once again for disappointing you with my careless actions," and added, "I will not forget my past wrongdoing and will live as a cook who has a positive impact on society."
Chef Im Seong-keun, following his victory in "Korean Food War 3," recently enjoyed a second heyday with his talk and skills by appearing as a "White Spoon chef" on the now-ended "Culinary Class Wars 2."