“Don't Worry About Celebrities”
Broadcaster Lee Kyung-kyu, who has caused controversy for driving after taking medication for panic disorder, left a message to the public asking them not to worry, rather than offering an apology. It was a moment that felt like he was standing tall.
On the afternoon of the 10th, Lee Kyung-kyu shared his recent updates through his YouTube channel ‘God Kyung-kyu’. On that day, he staged a scene where he visited a famous shaman to hear his fortune for the second half of the year.
Afterward, the production team mentioned to Lee Kyung-kyu, who was about to go home, that “many viewers are worried in the comments,” referring to the recent controversy. Although it was a somewhat sensitive question, Lee Kyung-kyu answered comfortably, as if he was prepared or exuding confidence.
“The biggest worry in this world, the one you really shouldn't have, is worrying about celebrities. I appreciate your concern, but it would be great if you could subscribe more. Don't worry too much, and subscribing is the best remedy for panic disorder.”
It was a relaxed statement. There was trust in the words of a veteran with over 40 years in the entertainment industry. However, on the other hand, there was also skepticism about whether he could say such things while being sent to the prosecution.
According to the police, Lee Kyung-kyu was sent to the prosecution without detention on the 2nd for driving under the influence of drugs. It is unclear when the video was produced in relation to the time of the report on his prosecution, but his characteristic straightforward and easygoing manner conveyed a sense of innocence regarding the controversy.
Current Article 45 of the Road Traffic Act prohibits driving under the influence of drugs, including narcotics, marijuana, and psychotropic substances, which impair normal driving ability.
On the 8th of last month, Lee Kyung-kyu mistakenly drove another person's vehicle of the same model out of a parking lot in Gangnam, Seoul, and was reported for suspected vehicle theft. Subsequently, a preliminary drug test conducted by the police who arrived on the scene confirmed a positive result, leading to his being charged with violating the Road Traffic Act, which heightened concerns. As a result, Lee Kyung-kyu was classified as a suspect and explained that he had submitted the panic disorder medication he had been taking for 10 years.
This led to reactions suggesting that Lee Kyung-kyu might be embroiled in a drug scandal, causing public disappointment. In relation to this, after the police investigation, Lee Kyung-kyu stated in front of reporters, “There were no narcotic substances or marijuana, and the components that were detected were those I usually take,” clarifying that it was due to the medication for his panic disorder.
After the YouTube video was uploaded, Lee Kyung-kyu also left a somewhat light-hearted and witty comment in the fixed comment section, saying, “YouTube family, I’m okay. All I want is views.”
The incident is still ongoing. As attention is focused on what outcome his innocence will bring, his request for fans not to worry about him conveys a sense of ‘innocence’ or ‘confidence’ rather than ‘shamelessness’.
[Ji Seung-hoon, Star Today Reporter]
