Seonggeun Lim Admits to Past DUI Offenses
"I Will Live with Self-Discipline"
Chef Seonggeun Lim, who gained popularity after appearing on the recently concluded Netflix variety show "The Chef Showdown: Culinary Class War Season 2" (hereafter "The Chef Showdown 2"), which became a sensation, has publicly admitted to three past instances of drunk driving and posted an apology.
Confession: "Caught Drunk Driving Three Times Over 10 Years"
On the 18th, Seonggeun Lim revealed in a video posted on his YouTube channel that he had previously driven under the influence. He said, "Because I liked drinking, I made mistakes," and added, "Over a span of 10 years, I drove under the influence about three times."
He explained, "I had a habit of sleeping in my car after drinking, and once, while I was sleeping in my car, the police caught me and I explained the situation. But the police asked why someone who had been drinking was sitting in the driver's seat with the engine running," adding, "Later, I learned that I should have turned off the engine and just sat there."
Seonggeun Lim stated, "What I did was wrong," and added, "I was criminally punished, my license was revoked, and I obtained my license again afterward." He continued, "Since then, I have come to my senses and have not driven under the influence. I am truly sorry for causing unnecessary concern."
Posted a Handwritten Apology Letter and Apologized Again After Controversy
After the video was released and controversy arose, he issued another apology through a handwritten letter. Seonggeun Lim said, "I bow my head in deep apology to the many fans and viewers who have cherished and supported me," and continued, "Today, I would like to confess a major mistake from my past that has weighed heavily on my heart and sincerely ask for your forgiveness."
He added, "Drunk driving is my fault and mistake that cannot be excused for any reason," and continued, "At the time, I deeply regretted my actions, accepted the legal punishment, and spent the past few years in self-reflection."
He explained his reason for confessing, saying, "As I have recently received overwhelming support, I felt that continuing my activities while hiding my past wrongdoing would be a betrayal and disrespect to those who trust me. I decided that it was my duty to confess and apologize before it was too late, and that is why I am posting this today."
He concluded, "I sincerely apologize once again for disappointing you with my careless actions. I will not forget my past mistakes and will strive to live as a chef who can have a positive influence on society."
Seonggeun Lim became known after winning tvN's "Korean Cuisine War 3" in 2015. He later appeared on shows such as "Altoran," "Morning Yard," and "Live Info." Recently, with the popularity of "The Chef Showdown 2," the number of subscribers to his YouTube channel surged from 350,000 to about 990,000, marking a second heyday in his career.
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