As Yoo Ah-in posted his first apology 50 days after being accused of habitual drug use, the possibility of paying an advertising penalty of over 10 billion won was raised.
On YTN's 'News Live' broadcast on the 28th, lawyer Kim Seong-hoon appeared and said, "If Yoo Ah-in is found guilty, it is very likely that he will pay a penalty. However, the possibility of reaching an agreement before the lawsuit cannot be ruled out."
Attorney Kim continued, "According to the contract for appearing in entertainment advertisements, if an artist is prosecuted for causing social controversy and the brand image is damaged, and the advertisements can no longer be placed, damages are scheduled to be paid as a penalty equal to or greater than the advertisement cost. He added, “It will be difficult to completely avoid legal responsibility because the provisions are strictly included these days.” He added, “An agreement on compensation for damages may be reached to some extent, but if an agreement cannot be reached and there are disagreements, it could lead to a lawsuit.”
Currently, Yoo Ah-in is an advertising model for about 10 brands, including clothing, health foods, cosmetics, and food. As Yoo Ah-in's annual advertising model fee is known to be between 800 million and 1 billion won, the penalty is expected to exceed 10 billion won.
On the 27th, Yoo Ah-in was investigated by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Drug Crime Investigation Unit on charges of violating the Narcotics Control Act. After about 12 hours of investigation, Yoo Ah-in stood in front of the reporters and bowed his head, saying, "I told you all the facts I could reveal. I am sorry for disappointing those who loved me because of this unpleasant incident."
He continued, "Because the investigation is not over, I am cautious about sharing the details directly. Personally, I think I was mired in the wrong swamp of self-justification by claiming that my deviant actions did not harm anyone." "I'm sorry for the delay. I want to use these moments as an opportunity to live with healthy moments that I have never experienced before," he added.
Afterwards, a long apology was also posted today (28th). Yoo Ah-in said, "Yesterday, right after the police investigation, I offered an insufficient apology. I would like to express my apology to those who worked with me on valuable work such as movies, dramas, and advertisements, for not being able to convey it yesterday. I deeply reflect on the moments when I irresponsibly endured heavy responsibilities. "I am sorry for causing harm to the countless colleagues and people involved who were trying to achieve their precious dreams and goals. I will work hard to fulfill my responsibilities," he said.
He said, "Many people supported me and gave me generous encouragement and affection, but I feel great regret and shame over the fact that I was harming myself while continuing my acting career. Also, because of that mistake, I feel great regret and shame for many people." “I hurt you,” he added.
Yoo Ah-in, who is accused of taking four types of drugs, including marijuana, propofol, cocaine, and ketamine, is expected to be summoned again as early as next week.
After the drug scandal broke out, the industry took steps to erase Yoo Ah-in. It has been decided to temporarily postpone or postpone the release of movies and dramas that have already completed filming. It is reported that the release of the movie 'High Five' will also be postponed and Yoo Ah-in's appearance will be edited out.
Taeyuna, Ten Asia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr