As of July 3 KST, South Korea’s Supreme Court has finalized a sentence of two years probation and a fine of 2 million KRW (approximately 1,500 USD) for actor Yoo Ah In, confirming his violation of the Narcotics Control Act. The court upheld the earlier district court ruling made during the appeal trial.
Yoo Ah In was indicted for abusing four types of illegal drugs—propofol, midazolam, ketamine, and remimazolam—between September 2020 and March 2021. He was also accused of illegally obtaining sleeping pills by using another person’s name over 40 times from May 2021 to August 2022.
Initially, the district court sentenced Yoo Ah In to one year in prison, a 2 million KRW fine, 80 hours of rehabilitation, and an additional court fee of 1.54 million KRW after finding him guilty on all charges. Upon appeal, his sentence was reduced to two years of probation and the same fine.
Despite the ongoing legal proceedings, the South Korean film industry has continued to support Yoo Ah In. This year, the actor starred in two major films: The Match, alongside Lee Byung Hun, and Hi-Five, featuring Oh Jung Se and Ra Mi Ran.
Industry insiders remain divided on Yoo Ah In’s future in film. One source stated, “With his sentence finalized, it’s a matter of who casts him first.” Another added, “Although he was highly sought after, it will be difficult for him to fully shed the ‘disgraceful’ image that has taken hold in the public consciousness.”
The actor’s legal battle and its impact on his career continue to be closely watched by both fans and the entertainment industry.
