Actor Yoo Ah In Appeals For Leniency After 4-Year Sentence For Drugs: 'Give Me a Chance'

Actor Yoo Ah In (real name Uhm Hong Sik) known for his roles in dramas like Six Flying Dragons and Sungkyunkwan Scandal, has requested leniency after being sentenced to four years in prison for drug use.

On December 24, the 5th Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court held a trial hearing for Yoo Ah In's appeal on charges of violating South Korea's Narcotics Control Act (psychotropic substances).

Following the witness examination, the prosecution requested a four-year prison term, consistent with their requests from the first trial.

"The sentence should be the same as the original," they said.

"I apologize to those who have been hurt and disappointed by my actions," said Yoo Ah In in his closing statement.

"I have caused irreparable harm to my parents, and to my colleagues, supporters, and fans who gave me their infinite trust. It was a betrayal and a crime. I deeply regret it."

The actor reasserted his commitment to growth during his period of reflection over detention.

"I am grateful for this time of reflection and am committed to rehabilitation and recovery. I make this vow with a firm resolve in front of those who are watching my words here and the public, and I swear before this sacred court," he said.

"Wherever I am, I will never lose sight of the gravity of my crime and will not abandon my conscience with a right mind. I sincerely ask for an opportunity to show my firm will to contribute to society through learning and life. I will face the world with more maturity and health."

Yoo had been indicted in October 2023 for abusing substances such as propofol and ketamine, used over 180 times between September 2020 and March 2022.

The actor also received illegal prescriptions for sleeping pills under someone else over 40 times. Yoo has been accused of smoking marijuana in the U.S. with four accomplices.

In the first trial, Yoo had been sentenced to a year in prison as well as hit with a two million won (~$1,300 USD) fine.

The court, however, was unable to find sufficient evidence to convict him on charges of marijuana use or destruction of evidence and acquitted him of those charges.

The prosecution appealed, doubling back on a heavier sentence, with Yoo's side filing for an appeal against the first trial's decision.

"He did not intentionally violate the law or regulations, but developed an addiction to sedative drugs due to an already physically and mentally difficult situation," said Yoo's defense in the first trial, pleading for leniency on terms that the actor had suffered after losing his father in August.

Yoo's next trial ruling is scheduled for February 18, 2025.