Actor Yoo Ah In Faces Ongoing Legal Proceedings Over Drug Charges in South Korea

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By The General Justice Lawyer, June 29 2925

Seoul, South Korea — South Korean actor Yoo Ah-in, whose real name is Uhm Hong-sik, continues to face criminal charges related to illegal drug use and violations of the Narcotics Control Act. The high-profile case remains under review by the Seoul Central District Court, with legal proceedings extending into the second half of 2025.

Yoo Ah In Trial — Yoo Ah-in’s defense argues his drug use was medically driven, citing mental health struggles and work-induced exhaustion.
With prosecutors appealing his suspended sentence, will South Korea’s Supreme Court uphold leniency or push for tougher penalties? Final… https://t.co/IO1EZKsrQK
— Gen Just Law (@genjustlaw) June 28, 2025

Actor Yoo Ah In Trial

Yoo was initially investigated in early 2023 after South Korean authorities flagged irregularities in his use of propofol, a powerful anesthetic. Subsequent forensic testing confirmed the presence of multiple illegal substances in his system, including marijuana, ketamine, and midazolam. Prosecutors alleged that the actor used the substances recreationally without medical justification.

By mid-2023, Yoo had been formally indicted for habitual drug use, forging medical records, and obtaining prescription drugs under false pretenses. The court also considered whether his agency and medical practitioners could face separate administrative or criminal penalties.

Despite public apologies issued by Yoo and multiple statements of remorse, the court has moved forward with formal proceedings. Prosecutors argue that his influence as a public figure makes the case significant, particularly in light of South Korea’s strict stance on drug-related offenses. Yoo has attended mandatory court hearings and complied with judicial restrictions, but he remains at risk of a custodial sentence.

South Korean defamation and publicity laws have also intersected with the case. Yoo’s legal team previously warned of potential legal action against individuals spreading false rumors or defamatory posts online. The actor’s public image and contractual obligations with major brands have been severely impacted.

The legal battle is unfolding as public opinion remains divided. While some argue for leniency due to mental health factors and media pressure, others support strict penalties in accordance with South Korean law. If convicted on all counts, Yoo could face a prison term ranging from one to five years.

The final verdict is expected later this year, barring further procedural delays. The case is seen as a litmus test for how South Korean courts handle celebrity drug offenses in an era of heightened social media scrutiny and rising calls for accountability.