CCTV footage capturing comedian Lee Kyung-kyu's situation at the time he was investigated by the police for driving after taking medication for panic disorder has been released, sparking controversy. In particular, the footage shows him stumbling on the roadway, not the sidewalk, and also features a minor collision with the vehicle in front, amplifying the fallout.
On the 26th, Lee Kyung-kyu's agency reiterated its apology, stating, “We are sorry for causing concern to fans and many others regarding recent reports.” It added, “Lee Kyung-kyu is diligently cooperating with the police investigation and is deeply reflecting on his carelessness.”
According to CCTV footage released by MBN on the 25th, Lee Kyung-kyu was captured on the 8th in an alley in Gangnam, Seoul, after stopping his vehicle and moving unsteadily on the roadway instead of the sidewalk. It has been confirmed that a minor collision incident with a stationary bus occurred while he was stopping the vehicle.
Afterward, Lee Kyung-kyu moved the vehicle nearby to park it and visited a hospital. He was also captured getting into a different vehicle, not the one he initially boarded, after finishing his treatment. The police responded to a report of vehicle theft and, after verifying Lee Kyung-kyu at the scene, conducted a preliminary drug test, which also returned positive results in a detailed examination.
Lee Kyung-kyu was immediately charged with violating the Road Traffic Law and questioned. During the investigation, he stated, “I did not realize that the medication I was taking for panic disorder could affect my driving,” and added, “I feel a heavy responsibility, and I will be careful to ensure that this does not happen again.”
His lawyer noted, “Lee Kyung-kyu has been receiving treatment for panic disorder for over 10 years, and on the day of the incident, he was experiencing severe symptoms and drove to the hospital himself.” The lawyer added, “Ultimately, it was a case of carelessness, and he fully accepts the responsibility that comes with it.”
This incident has raised awareness about the risks of driving after taking medication, delivering a social message.
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