25.06.25.Today News : Comedian Lee Kyung-kyu Admits to Driving After Taking Anxiety Medication: “It Was My Carelessness”

Comedian Lee Kyung-kyu Admits to Driving After Taking Anxiety Medication: “It Was My Carelessness”

• Police investigate Lee on suspicion of drugged driving; comedian expresses regret and apologizes to fans

South Korean comedian Lee Kyung-kyu has been booked for allegedly driving under the influence of prescribed medication for panic disorder. He acknowledged his lack of caution and expressed deep regret following a police summons for questioning.

Comedian Lee Kyung-kyu has been charged with driving after taking medication to treat panic disorder.

On June 24, Seoul's Gangnam Police summoned comedian Lee Kyung-kyu (age 65) as a suspect in violation of the Road Traffic Act. The investigation lasted approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes, focusing on the circumstances of his medication intake and subsequent driving.

The incident in question occurred on June 8 around 2 p.m. in Nonhyeon-dong, Gangnam. Lee was reportedly driving under the influence of prescribed medication for panic disorder when he mistakenly drove a car of the same model as his own. This led to a theft suspicion report. On-site drug screening by police yielded a positive result, which was later confirmed by the National Forensic Service.

After the investigation, Lee told reporters, “I did not fully realize the risks of driving after taking anxiety medication. I want to warn others taking similar drugs to refrain from driving.” He added that he would be more careful in the future.

In an official statement read by his attorney, Lee explained that he has suffered from panic disorder for over a decade. “Although I had taken my prescribed medication the night before, I felt unwell and drove myself to the hospital the next day,” the statement said. “Regardless, it was a careless act, and I accept full responsibility.”

Under South Korea’s Road Traffic Act Article 45, even prescribed medications can constitute impaired driving if they affect cognitive or motor abilities. Lee has been booked accordingly.

Regarding the vehicle incident, Lee clarified that he had his car key and the mistakenly driven vehicle had been left unlocked with its key inside, attributing the confusion to a valet’s error.

Lee concluded by saying, “I deeply apologize to my fans who have supported me for so long. I’m truly sorry for the disappointment.”

The police will review Lee’s testimony and additional evidence before determining further legal action.

One-line summary : Comedian Lee Kyung-kyu has been booked for driving after taking anxiety medication and apologized, admitting his carelessness.