South Korean Actor Lee Jae-ryong Arrested for DUI Hit-and-Run Incident

South Korean actor Lee Jae-ryong, 61, was arrested for a DUI hit-and-run incident just 12 days after the release of his appearance on the YouTube channel 'Jjanhaneong'.

According to the Gangnam Police Station in Seoul, Lee was driving near Samseong Jungang Station on Seoul Subway Line 9 around 2 a.m. when he crashed into a median strip and fled the scene. He was later apprehended by police after parking his car at his home and visiting a friend's house.

Lee's blood alcohol concentration at the time was reportedly at a level warranting license suspension. The Gangnam Police are currently investigating him for violating the Road Traffic Act, including failure to take necessary measures after an accident.

Lee had recently showcased his fondness for alcohol on the YouTube channel 'Jjanhaneong Shin Dong-yup', which was released on September 23. Fellow actor Ahn Jae-wook, who appeared alongside him, remarked that Lee has the highest alcohol tolerance among actors he knows, stating, “I’ve never beaten Jae-ryong in drinking, nor have I seen him drunk.” Close friend Shin Dong-yup agreed, saying, “It’s true. Seeing Jae-ryong drunk is not easy.” Lee Jae-wook added, “But he stays sober till the end, even after three rounds.”

This is not Lee's first alcohol-related controversy. In 2003, he was booked for refusing a breathalyzer test after a DUI incident, resulting in his license being revoked. In 2019, he was sent to the prosecution for property damage after destroying a bowling alley sign while intoxicated, although he avoided charges by compensating the damages.

Lee Jae-ryong has been married to actress Yoo Ho-jung since 1995, and they have a son and a daughter.

Tae Yuna, TenAsia Reporter youyou@tenasia.co.kr