South Korean entertainer Lee Kyung-kyu candidly shared his feelings following a drug-related driving controversy.
On the October 15th episode of tvN STORY's 'What to Do with Leftovers' featuring special MC Kim Sook, Lee Kyung-kyu appeared and engaged in a lively and honest conversation about food.
During the broadcast, when the MCs mentioned his past works and catchphrases, Lee suggested, "Let's refrain from talking about past memories." Reflecting on his own crisis, he surprised everyone by saying, "I have so much to talk about, like the drug-related driving incident."
Previously, on June 8th, Lee was investigated by police after a minor fender bender while driving under the influence of medication for panic disorder and a cold. At the time, Lee stated, "I didn't fully realize that I shouldn't drive after taking medication. I will be more careful in the future."
When asked by Lee Young-ja about his feelings during that time, Lee Kyung-kyu admitted, "I realized that I could think about death in my life. It was very serious. I'm okay now, but the trauma lasted a long time."
Kim Sook cautiously asked, "Who did you communicate with at that time?" Lee replied, "I didn't communicate with anyone. I often joked, 'If you avoid the police station, you'll end up at the precinct.' I went to both the police station and the precinct. I've even stood on the photo line."
Lee also discussed the psychological pressure and the world surrounding him. He confessed, "Sudden misfortune is unavoidable. A junior once asked me during filming, 'Do you get bothered by negative comments?' I told him, 'Most people aren't as interested in you as you think. Don't pay attention to it.' But when it happened to me, it felt like the whole world was watching me."
Additionally, Lee shared, "I thought a lot before coming on the show to talk about this. I decided to bring it up because it seemed difficult for others to ask first." He also reassured viewers about his current state, saying, "I'm healthy. I've become much kinder."
Reporter Kim Se-ah, TenAsia haesmik@tenasia.co.kr