TenAsia's Kim Se-ah delves deeply into entertainment industry issues.
Korean broadcaster Lee Kyung-kyu has returned to television just a month after being embroiled in a controversy over driving under the influence of medication. Surprisingly, the public's reaction has been more supportive than expected.
On the 2nd of last month, Lee was charged without detention for violating traffic laws. He was accused of driving under the influence of medication in Gangnam District, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 8th of the previous month. Police, responding to a report, conducted a field drug test on Lee, which returned positive results. Further tests by the National Forensic Service confirmed the findings.
Lee's agency explained, "Lee Kyung-kyu has been suffering from panic disorder for about 10 years and has been receiving continuous treatment as prescribed by a specialist. The day before the incident, his symptoms worsened, leading him to take medication. The next day, feeling unwell, he drove himself to a medical appointment. All medications were legally prescribed by a specialist."
During the police investigation, Lee stated, "I did not fully realize that I should not drive after taking medication for panic disorder." He acknowledged a lack of awareness regarding the medication's potential impact on driving.
Following the controversy, some of Lee's shows were temporarily suspended, leading to speculation that it was due to the drug driving allegations. However, the production teams clarified that the suspensions were unrelated to Lee's controversy and were pre-planned.
Lee did not deny the charges and admitted his mistake from the outset, choosing to confront the controversy head-on. On the 10th, he announced his return by posting a video on his YouTube channel 'God Kyung-kyu.' In the video, Lee humorously addressed the situation, saying, "The last thing you should worry about in this world is a celebrity. If you subscribe more, it would be great. Subscriptions are the best remedy for panic disorder."
Even before the controversy subsided, news broke that Lee would be hosting a new SBS program, 'One Shot Project - My Turn.' While some viewed his return just two weeks after the apology as hasty, online reactions were largely positive, praising his honesty and commitment to his staff.
The fact that there were no victims and Lee's quick acknowledgment of responsibility contributed to the favorable public opinion regarding his return. Comments like "It was an apology only Lee Kyung-kyu could make" and "His sincerity was felt behind the humor" highlight how his unique approach to addressing the controversy worked in his favor.
However, despite the unintended nature of the incident, driving under the influence of medication remains a dangerous act, and there are calls for more caution from public figures like Lee, who have been in the industry for decades.
Known for his long-standing presence in the entertainment industry, Lee managed to handle both his apology and return with a light touch. His swift acknowledgment and sincerity won over the public, resulting in more applause than criticism for his rapid comeback.
Kim Se-ah, TenAsia Reporter haesmik@tenasia.co.kr