The K-Pop world is abuzz as the legal proceedings for a well-known Korean TV personality, Lee Jin Ho, continue. Prosecutors have demanded a prison sentence for Lee Jin Ho, who faces serious charges of illegal gambling and drunk driving.
At a recent sentencing hearing held on the morning of August 14th at the Suwon District Court Yeoju Branch, the prosecution requested a two-year prison term for Lee Jin Ho. The case, under the sole jurisdiction of Criminal Division 1, has drawn considerable attention due to the high-profile nature of the individual involved.
Lee Jin Ho Admits Charges, Pleads for Leniency
During the hearing, Lee Jin Ho admitted to all charges brought against him. His legal counsel pleaded for leniency, emphasizing his client’s deep reflection on his wrongdoing. The lawyer highlighted that this is Lee Jin Ho’s first offense and assured the court of his pledge not to reoffend. In his final statement to the court, Lee Jin Ho expressed profound regret, stating, “Having made these mistakes, I have lived every day with regret and without peace of mind.” He solemnly vowed, “I will never commit such crimes again.”
Drunk Driving & Illegal Gambling Allegations
Adding a somber note to the court appearance, Lee Jin Ho arrived using crutches, still experiencing significant mobility difficulties. This follows a severe health incident earlier this year when he collapsed due to a cerebral hemorrhage.
The charges against Lee Jin Ho stem from an indictment without detention issued by the Suwon District Prosecutors’ Office Yeoju Branch on May 29. According to the prosecution, Lee Jin Ho is accused of drunk driving approximately 100 km, from Incheon to Yangpyeong, in the early morning hours of September 24 last year. At the time of the incident, his initial blood alcohol concentration was measured at 0.11%, a level sufficient for license cancellation. A subsequent blood test, requested by Lee Jin Ho and analyzed by the National Forensic Service, confirmed an even higher blood alcohol concentration of 0.12%.
Health Crisis and Recovery Amidst Legal Battle
Beyond the drunk driving allegations, Lee Jin Ho also faces accusations of gambling multiple times on illegal online gambling sites. This investigation began after the police received a complaint through the National Police Agency’s civil petition portal, which requested an inquiry into gambling fraud charges against him. The case was subsequently referred to the prosecution.
Adding to the difficult period, Lee Jin Ho experienced a sudden health crisis on April 1 when he collapsed at his home due to a cerebral hemorrhage. He was urgently transported to the hospital. Reports indicated that singer and former Super Junior member Kangin, who was with Lee Jin Ho at the time, made the emergency call that dispatched the 119 ambulance team. Lee Jin Ho was rushed to a hospital in Seoul, where he received critical care in the intensive care unit. After regaining consciousness, he was transferred to a general ward to continue rehabilitation therapy. He was discharged at the end of May and has since been receiving outpatient treatment at home, focusing on rest and recovery. While some paralysis remains, causing difficulties in communication and mobility, his condition has significantly improved to the level where light conversation and movement are now possible.
