Lee Kyung-kyu's Drug-Impaired Driving Scandal: Panic Disorder Medication, Apology, and Community Debate

Lee Kyung-kyu’s Drug-Impaired Driving Incident: What Happened?

Did you know that one of Korea’s most iconic comedians, Lee Kyung-kyu, recently admitted to driving after taking medication for panic disorder? On June 24, 2025, Lee was summoned by the Seoul Gangnam Police for questioning regarding allegations of drug-impaired driving. The incident occurred on June 8, when Lee, after taking his prescribed medication, drove in the Nonhyeon neighborhood. Due to a mix-up with a parking attendant, he ended up driving someone else’s car, which led to a theft suspicion and a police report. A drug reagent test at the scene showed a positive result, and further testing by the National Forensic Service confirmed the presence of prescription drugs in his system. Lee’s agency clarified that he had been suffering from panic disorder for over a decade and had always taken his medication as prescribed. Nevertheless, Lee admitted his negligence, stating he was unaware that driving after taking such medication was prohibited and apologized to the public for his actions.

The Legal and Medical Context: Prescription Drugs and Driving in Korea

In Korea, Article 45 of the Road Traffic Act prohibits driving under the influence of any substance—legal or illegal—that could impair one’s ability to drive safely. Even if a drug is prescribed, if it affects cognitive or motor functions, driving is off-limits. Lee’s case highlights a gray area: while his medication was legally prescribed, it potentially impaired his driving ability. This legal nuance is not widely understood by the public, and Lee’s case has sparked a broader discussion about the responsibilities of patients and the need for clear guidance from medical professionals. Mental health experts have weighed in, noting that while most psychiatric medications do not cause severe drowsiness, some can, and patients should be explicitly warned about the risks of driving after taking them.

How Did the Incident Unfold? Details from Police and Media

On the day of the incident, Lee was reportedly feeling unwell and decided to drive himself to the hospital after taking his medication. Due to a parking attendant’s mistake, he drove a car identical to his own, leading to a theft suspicion. The police, responding to the report, administered a drug test, which came back positive for substances found in his prescribed medication. Lee was cooperative, providing his prescription and explaining his medical history. After a thorough investigation—including reviewing CCTV and black box footage—the police confirmed that Lee had not taken any illegal drugs, but his actions still fell under the legal definition of drug-impaired driving. Lee’s public apology emphasized his lack of awareness and his commitment to being more careful in the future.

Community Reactions: Mixed Feelings and Heated Debates

Korean online communities, such as Theqoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, Naver, Daum, DC Inside, FM Korea, and PGR21, exploded with reactions to the news. Some users expressed disappointment, emphasizing that celebrities should set a better example. Others sympathized with Lee, noting the challenges of living with panic disorder and the lack of public awareness about the effects of prescription drugs. A few representative comments include: 'He should have known better, but I feel bad for him,' 'Mental health patients are always under scrutiny,' and 'This could happen to anyone who isn’t properly informed.' On Naver and Tistory blogs, several posts defended Lee, explaining the difference between illegal drug use and prescribed medication, while others criticized the lack of caution. The overall sentiment was divided, reflecting broader societal attitudes toward mental health and celebrity accountability.

Cultural Insights: Mental Health Stigma and Celebrity Pressure in Korea

For international readers, it’s important to understand the cultural context behind the strong reactions to this incident. In Korea, mental health issues have long been stigmatized, and public figures are expected to maintain impeccable behavior. The revelation that Lee, a beloved entertainer, suffers from panic disorder and takes medication was itself a surprise to many fans. The incident has reignited debates about how society treats those with mental health conditions, especially when they are in the public eye. Some psychiatrists have warned that such scandals could increase stigma and discourage people from seeking treatment. Others argue that this is an opportunity to educate the public about the realities of living with mental illness and the importance of following medical advice.

What Can Fans and the Public Learn from This Case?

Lee Kyung-kyu’s case serves as a wake-up call for both patients and the general public. If you are taking any medication that could affect your alertness or motor skills, it’s crucial to consult with your doctor before driving. The incident also highlights the need for clearer communication between healthcare providers and patients about the risks associated with prescription drugs. For fans of Korean entertainment, this is a reminder that celebrities are human too, facing the same health challenges and legal responsibilities as everyone else. The hope is that this incident will lead to greater understanding, less stigma, and more responsible behavior from both public figures and ordinary citizens.

The Aftermath: Apologies, Legal Proceedings, and Future Implications

Following the investigation, Lee Kyung-kyu issued multiple apologies, both in person and through official statements. He acknowledged his negligence and expressed deep regret for disappointing his fans. The police investigation is ongoing, but experts predict that Lee is unlikely to face severe legal penalties since the drugs were legally prescribed and there was no intent to break the law. However, the incident has already impacted his public image and sparked important conversations about mental health, prescription drug use, and celebrity responsibility in Korea. As the story continues to unfold, many hope it will lead to positive changes in how society addresses these complex issues.