K-Drama Stars Who Battled Drug Addiction: Yoo Ah In, Ju Ji Hoon, More
Cancel culture is not new in Korean entertainment, especially if a celebrity gets involved in massive controversies like drug addiction.
From top stars, award winning celebrities and more, scandal-ridden actors face countless of criticisms and would sometime be the reason of their declining popualirity.
Here are 4 South Korean stars who battled drug addiction
Yoo Ah In
One of the biggest scandal in the first half of 2023 that rocked Korea's entertainment industry is Yoo Ah In's drug controversy.
Back in February of 2023, news sparked that a top actor underwent an investigation over the alleged use of propofol, a drug considered illegal in South Korea if used outside of surgical procedures.
During the probe, it was found out that he has been using propofol since 2021.
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In addition, he tested positive for four types of drugs: propofol, marijuana, cocaine, and ketamine.
Due to the drug scandal, Yoo Ah In stepped down from his role in the upcoming series "Hellbound 2."
Ju Ji Hoon
Known as one of K-drama's rising stars back then, Ju Ji Hoon's drug scandal went public in 2009 after he was arrested over drug charges by the Seoul Metropolitan Police.
At the time, authorities revealed that he had reportedly bought ecstasy and fetamine from a fellow celebrity.
Due to the massive controversy, Joo Ji Hoon admitted to his crimes and was sentenced to six months in prison. He also underwent 1-year probation and 120 hours of volunteer service.
According to a news portal, what prompted him to confess to his drug use was the feeling of "embarrassed and ashamed."
After years of hiatus, he was able to return with K-drama comebacks and movies.
One of his biggest projects after the drug scandal is headlining the hit K-drama "Kingdom," where he plays Crowne Prine.
Ha Jung Woo
Before his global fame through the popularity of the Netflix series "Narco-Saints," top actor Ha Jung Woo was embroiled in a drug controversy back in 2019 over the illegal use of propofol.
According to a media outlet, he was fined 30 million won for violating the Narcotics Control Act.
Following the investigation, he confessed to the charges against him and accepted the court ruling.
At the time, he reflected on his actions and promised to live a "more responsible and healthy life."
Park Yoo Chun
Best known for his roles in "The Girl Who Sees Scents" and "Rooftop Prince," actor-singer Park Yoo Chun made headlines after his involvement with drugs.
In 2019, he was accused of buying and using illegal substances together with his ex-fiancee and socialite Hwang Ha Na.
Then 33-year-old actor was sentenced to two years of probation and asked to pay a fine of US$1,200.
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