ENTERTAINMENT
Actor Lee Jae-ryong Under Investigation for DUI and Post-Accident Actions
According to a report on the 13th, the Seoul Gangnam Police are investigating Lee Jae-ryong for violating traffic laws, including DUI and failing to take action after an accident. They are looking into the circumstances of his visit to a restaurant immediately after the incident and his alcohol consumption.
Lee Jae-ryong is accused of driving under the influence and hitting a central divider near Cheongdam Station in Gangnam, Seoul, around 11 PM on the 6th. He allegedly fled the scene and was apprehended at a friend's house around 2 AM the following morning.
Initially denying the allegations, Lee later admitted to drinking four shots of soju before the accident.
Reports indicate that after the accident, Lee parked his car at his Cheongdam residence and walked to a restaurant 20 minutes away, where he joined friends who were waiting for him. They reportedly ordered a bottle of distilled liquor and two servings of beef.
It is suggested that Lee headed to a friend's house after the accident, where he may have continued drinking.
The timing of his friends' arrival at the restaurant, around 11:10 PM, shortly after the accident, and the small amount of food ordered, suggest the gathering may have been hastily arranged.
A restaurant employee who saw Lee stated, "He came in with his face covered by a black mask and seemed quite intoxicated. He appeared to be discussing countermeasures over the phone with someone."
Lee Jae-ryong has a history of similar incidents. In 2019, he was sent to the prosecution for property damage after destroying a bowling alley sign while intoxicated. In 2003, he was booked for refusing a breathalyzer test after a DUI accident near Cheongdam Intersection, which led to his license being revoked.
His wife, Yoo Ho-jung, is currently starring in the KBS2 weekend drama 'Prescription for Love,' marking her return to television after 11 years.
Reporter Da-yeon Jeong, Ten Asia light@tenasia.co.kr
