Reports emerged on the 11th that Jeong drove a car in a provincial city in 2023 when he was 16, an age at which he could not legally obtain a driver's license. The Seoul Western District Prosecutors' Office confirmed, "Jeong Dong-won is under investigation for violating the Road Traffic Act (unlicensed driving)." His agency, Showplay Entertainment, stated, "Jeong drove for about 10 minutes near his hometown in Hadong for practice and deeply regrets his mistake."
Previously, Jeong was caught riding a motorcycle on a highway in Seoul without a license, resulting in a 'suspension of indictment' due to the minor nature of the offense. This incident occurred in the same year as the unlicensed car driving.
While Jeong could have joined the Marine Corps without issue based on his previous record, the added charge of unlicensed driving complicates his path. Jeong has publicly shared his aspiration to join the 'Marine Corps Reconnaissance Unit,' inspired by his father's service in the elite 707th Special Mission Group.
The Marine Corps requires applicants to have no disqualifying criminal records. Although Jeong's previous motorcycle incident does not count as a criminal record, the new charge could impact his eligibility, especially during the selection process where criminal history is reviewed.
Under the Road Traffic Act, driving without a license can result in up to one year in prison or a fine of up to 3 million won. As this is a repeat offense, Jeong may face formal prosecution without the option of a suspended indictment.
If Jeong receives a prison sentence or probation, he would be disqualified from applying to the Marine Corps. His agency revealed that Jeong was blackmailed for 2 billion won by someone who had footage of his unlicensed driving but chose to report the extortion attempt to the police instead of complying.
Jeong has consistently expressed his commitment to serving in the military, stating in past interviews and appearances that he dreams of joining the Marine Corps. As he reflects on his mistakes, it remains to be seen if he can overcome these challenges and fulfill his military aspirations.
By Da-yeon Jeong, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr