On October 18, Lim uploaded a video titled 'Food and Alcohol' on his YouTube channel 'LimJjangTV.' In the video, he confessed to having been cautious about alcohol for the past 5-6 years, admitting, "I made mistakes because I liked drinking. I drove under the influence three times over ten years."
Viewers reacted with criticism, commenting, "Don't try to make this sound cool or funny," "Even one DUI is a problem, but three?" and "It's shocking how casually he talks about this with a bottle of alcohol in the frame."
Lim's Instagram also received backlash. Some users posted videos of him drinking directly from a bottle, referencing his recent appearance on the tvN show 'You Quiz on the Block.' Others criticized him for only apologizing on his YouTube channel, calling it "legendary deceit." Lim responded to these comments by liking them and replying, "I'm sorry."
Following the video's release, Lim posted an apology on his YouTube channel. He stated, "There is no excuse for my DUI offenses; they were my mistakes. I deeply regretted them and accepted the legal consequences. I have spent the past few years reflecting on myself. I decided it was right to confess and apologize before it was too late."
Lim continued, "I sincerely apologize for disappointing you with my careless actions. I will strive to be a chef who positively influences society by not forgetting my past mistakes and managing myself better."
In the controversial video, Lim explained his decision to confess, saying, "I want to hide it, but if something happens later, many people will be hurt. I don't want to evade responsibility for my wrongdoings." When asked by the producer if it was okay to upload the content, he replied, "I don't want to hide it. It's right to inform and apologize to our subscribers. It's not something that can be hidden, and I feel sorry for causing concern."
He added, "Receiving immense love is overwhelming, and I want to unburden myself by sharing what's on my mind. I've enjoyed drinking due to a busy and stressful life, and I hope for your understanding and forgiveness. I will be careful in the future to avoid any issues."
Lim is scheduled to appear on MBC's 'The Manager' on October 24. However, KBS2's 'Stars' Top Recipe at Fun-Staurant' has decided to cancel his scheduled recording.
By Dayeon Jung, TenAsia Reporter light@tenasia.co.kr