Caught Drunk Driving from Incheon to Yangpyeong While Under Gambling Investigation
Blood Alcohol Level of 0.11%?Enough for License Revocation
Comedian Lee Jinho (39), who is currently under investigation for illegal gambling, has now been caught by the police for driving approximately 100 km while heavily intoxicated.
According to the Gyeonggi Southern Provincial Police Agency and Yangpyeong Police Station, it was confirmed that around 3 a.m. on September 24, Lee Jinho drove under the influence of alcohol from Incheon to Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province, and was booked on charges of violating the Road Traffic Act (drunk driving).
Comedian Lee Jinho (39) was caught by the police for driving approximately 100 km while heavily intoxicated. SM C&C
The police received a report suspecting drunk driving, conducted a search, and, through a joint investigation, located Lee Jinho's vehicle in the Yangpyeong area, apprehending him at the scene.
At the time, Lee Jinho was found to have a blood alcohol concentration of 0.11%, a level high enough for license revocation. He requested a blood test, and the final result is currently being analyzed. The police plan to determine the level of punishment once the investigation is complete. Lee Jinho has been sent home for now, and further questioning will be scheduled through a later summons.
Lee Jinho's agency, SM C&C, released an official statement, saying, "After checking with Lee Jinho himself, we have confirmed that he drove under the influence early this morning. He has completed the investigation requested by the local police at the time of apprehension and is currently awaiting the outcome." The agency added, "Lee Jinho fully acknowledges his wrongdoing without any excuses and is deeply reflecting on his actions. The agency also feels a strong sense of responsibility and will ensure that Lee Jinho faithfully complies with any disciplinary measures and legal procedures."
Lee Jinho had previously been investigated as a suspect in connection with an illegal gambling case.
Last year, he admitted through his social media that he had accumulated massive debts after becoming addicted to illegal online gambling sites for several years. During the investigation, it was revealed that he had borrowed money from fellow celebrities and failed to repay them, causing a stir throughout the entertainment industry. It was reported that well-known figures such as BTS's Jimin, comedian Lee Soogeun, singers Youngtak, and Ha Sungwoon were entangled in these financial dealings, with some quietly resolving the monetary issues despite being affected. Some sources estimate that the total amount Lee Jinho borrowed from acquaintances exceeds 2 billion won (approximately 1.5 million USD).
Lee Jinho debuted as a comedian through SBS in 2005 and became known for his "Woongi's Father" character. He later appeared on various programs, including "Comedy Big League," but stepped down from JTBC's "Knowing Bros" due to gambling and financial scandals.
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