In a startling twist to the heartbreaking death of beloved Parasite actor Lee Sun-Kyun, three individuals — including two government officials and a journalist — have now been indicted for leaking confidential information tied to the actor’s drug investigation.
The Indictments: A Breach of Trust
On June 5, 2023, the Incheon District Prosecutor’s Office confirmed charges against the trio following an extensive investigation. Among the accused is a police officer, dubbed “A,” and a prosecutorial investigator, referred to as “B.” Both face charges under laws protecting official state secrets. A third suspect, a journalist identified as “C,” has been charged under the Personal Information Protection Act for unlawfully sharing sensitive personal data.
Authorities revealed that on October 18, 2023, Officer A secretly photographed internal investigation documents containing names, criminal records, and personal information of those connected to the drug case — including Lee. These images were then shared with two journalists.
The very next day, Investigator B reportedly tipped off another journalist, disclosing that Lee Sun-Kyun was under investigation — a leak that triggered an avalanche of media scrutiny and public speculation.
Media Frenzy Before the Fall
The premature exposure of Lee’s identity and the unverified allegations quickly became front-page news. The pressure mounted swiftly, and the once-revered actor — known for his compelling performance in the Oscar-winning Parasite — found himself at the center of an unforgiving media storm.
At the time, Lee had voluntarily submitted to police questioning on October 14, 2023, and had not been formally charged. But the leaked information painted a damning picture before due process could unfold.
Tragically, the weight of public judgment proved too heavy. Lee Sun-Kyun died on December 26, 2023, in a case that stunned South Korea and sparked an urgent national conversation about media ethics, privacy rights, and accountability.
A Nation Demands Justice
The backlash following Lee’s death was swift and fierce. Celebrities, fans, and citizens alike condemned the leaks and called for justice. The indictments this week are being viewed as a small but significant step toward accountability.
As the legal proceedings continue, many are left asking: Had the leaks not happened, could Lee Sun-Kyun still be alive today?
