Yoo Ah-in, the popular Korean actor from Hellbound, has recently been in hot waters over drug allegations.
Yoo Ah-in is his stage name, while his original name is Uhm Hong-Sik. He is one of the most prominent actors in South Korea known for playing a diverse spectrum of roles in both television and film, where he often portrays dynamic characters who exhibit significant personal growth.
He’s a well-decorated actor with multiple awards to his name. He is also known for his politically and socially charged views on his social media accounts. In 2016, he ranked second in the Forbes Korea Power Celebrity list.
Yoo Ah-in And His Drug Controversy
Yoo Ah-in has been a hot topic ever since his medical tests confirmed his usage of drugs and substances. The actor has faced a lot of loss due to the same.
He initially tested positive for propofol and marijuana in February. It started when he was investigated and underwent a urine and hair test on February 5 for his suspected non-medical usage of the anesthetic propofol.
According to reports, Yoo tested positive for marijuana in the urine test and for cocaine and ketamine in the hair test.
Yoo’s management company, the United Arts Agency, said in a statement that it was “actively cooperating with the investigation” following news that the actor had tested positive for propofol and marijuana. “We intend to explain all the issues that have been questioned,” it continued.
This a serious issue for the actor as the usage of drugs is a violation of South Korea’s Narcotics Control Act. Police have been looking deeply into the investigation and have even called for him to be questioned over the issue.
Under the Narcotics Control Act, individuals found guilty of illegal drug abuse could face up to 10 years in prison or a fine of up to ₩100million (approximately £65,200).
Effects of Yoo’s Drug Scandal
With all the media attention and the graveness of his offense, Yoo has been facing severe criticism.
Netflix also stated reports of Yoo’s alleged propofol use, saying: “We have heard from media reports that the investigation is currently underway, and are currently looking into the situation.”
It was later confirmed by Netflix on March 2nd that Yoo has been dropped from Season 2 of Hellbound and has been replaced by Kim Sung-Cheol to play the role of Jung Jinsu.
Yoo’s Public Apology
Yoo Ah-in has released a statement in response to his continuing drug scandal. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Drug Crime Investigation Unit held a private summons for him on March 27.
About 50 days after the initial start of the investigation, the summons was issued. Even though the public was informed the planned date was March 24, it was ultimately postponed.
He gave urine and hair samples and subsequently tested positive for ketamine, propofol, cocaine, and marijuana. The doctor who provided him with the medicines was arrested earlier and was later discovered to be abusing propofol himself.
Bowing his head in front of the reporters, Yoo stated that: “I am fully aware of the mistakes I have made. I am reflecting on myself. Any words of apology will not be enough but I am sorry.”
We will have to wait for further updates on Yoo’s case.
Conclusion
Yoo Ah-in has tested positive for drug usage and the actor has since been undergoing an investigation. He tested positive for propofol, cocaine, marijuana, and ketamine usage.
He issued an apology for his misconduct, but we doubt it might help him as substance use in Korea is strictly prohibited. They have a high punishment and penalty for the offense.
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