Singer Nam Taehyun on Probation for 'Philopon Use'..."No Plans to Appeal"

Singer Nam Taehyun (30), who was prosecuted on charges of using methamphetamine, was sentenced to a suspended prison term in the first trial.

Singer Nam Taehyun. [Image source=Yonhap News]

On the 18th, Judge Jeong Cheolmin of Criminal Division 7 at the Seoul Western District Court sentenced Nam to one year in prison with a two-year suspension. Broadcaster Seo Minjae (31, real name Seo Eunwoo), who used methamphetamine together with Nam, was sentenced to 10 months in prison with a two-year suspension. Additionally, both were ordered to undergo probation and attend 40 hours of drug treatment lectures.

The court pointed out, "The defendants are figures who have a significant influence on fans and the public and should set a social example, yet they committed the crime."

However, the court explained the sentencing by considering "the defendants' pledge not to use drugs again and their expressed determination to quit, Nam's lack of prior convictions for similar crimes, and Seo's status as a first-time offender."

After the trial, Nam said as he left the courthouse, "I reflect on myself daily and live with remorse. I don't know what I can do in the future, but I will live while having a positive influence on society," and stated that he has no plans to appeal.

Earlier, the prosecution sought a two-year prison sentence and a fine of 500,000 won for Nam, and one year and six months in prison and a fine of 450,000 won for Seo.

Nam and Seo are accused of purchasing methamphetamine via Telegram in August 2022 and using it together at Nam's residence in Yongsan-gu in the same month. Nam is also accused of using methamphetamine alone in December of the same year.

At that time, Seo posted on her social networking service (SNS) that she had used methamphetamine with Nam. The police launched an investigation after receiving a report, and both tested positive for methamphetamine in a detailed examination by the National Forensic Service.