Korean comedian Lee Kyung Kyu's DUI case sent to prosecution without detention

After receiving a report of a car theft, police arrived on the scene and gave Lee a preliminary drug test.

South Korean comedian Lee Kyung Kyu has been referred to the prosecution without detention for allegedly driving under the influence of prescribed medication, according to an official statement released by the Gangnam Police Station on July 2.

According to the Korean Herald, Lee allegedly drove someone else's car—which was the same make and model as his own—after a valet gave him the incorrect one on June 8 in southern Seoul.

After receiving a report of a car theft, police arrived on the scene and gave Lee a preliminary drug test. According to reports, the test came back positive. The presence of substances linked to his prescribed medication was confirmed by a subsequent laboratory drug test.

Later, Lee admitted that he had driven while intoxicated, but he denied knowing that his prescription medication for panic disorder prevented him from operating a motor vehicle. For almost ten years, he had been treating the illness under medical supervision.

Authorities claim that Lee was operating the car while under the influence of the drug in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam District. Since being called in for interrogation on June 24, he has complied with the inquiry.

Attorney Jung Gu Seung, his legal representative, told Xports News that although they have not been officially notified by the police, it seems Lee has been referred to the prosecution without being placed under arrest. Jung added that a written opinion was sent to the police, claiming that the public had been misinformed about the situation.

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Medical evidence that highlighted the dangers of combining cardiovascular medication with treatments for panic disorder was included in the document; these details may not be widely known. Lee has apologised for the incident and admitted to using his prescribed medication. He emphasised that he had no intention of breaking the law and was not aware of the legal ramifications associated with his condition and its treatment.

The Road Traffic Act in South Korea explicitly prohibits driving under the influence of any impairing substances, including prescribed drugs. The 64-year-old comedian, a longstanding artist in Korean entertainment, is best known for hosting popular programs like Healing Camp.