The head of the district police force responsible for investigating South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun over allegations of illegal drug use has defended the rigorous questioning and investigative procedures, emphasizing that the process was carried out with Lee’s consent. Incheon Metropolitan Police Chief Kim Hui-jung addressed the media during a news briefing, expressing “deep regret” over Lee’s tragic death and offering condolences to his grieving family. Lee Sun-kyun, a talented actor known for his role as the wealthy patriarch in the Oscar-winning film “Parasite,” passed away on Wednesday, leaving both the film industry and the public in mourning.
During the news briefing, Kim Hui-jung clarified that the police’s questioning of Lee Sun-kyun occurred during three separate appearances, with the final session lasting through the night. He emphasized that this thorough inquiry was necessary to hear Lee’s perspective and that it took place in the presence of his legal counsel.
“The investigation of the deceased was conducted based on specific reports, testimony, and evidence, and adhered to legally prescribed procedures,” Kim stated, defending the integrity of the investigative process.
Lee Sun-kyun had vehemently denied knowingly using illegal drugs, asserting that he had been deceived into doing so by a bar hostess attempting to blackmail him, according to local news media reports preceding his tragic passing.
Over the past few months, Lee had made three highly publicized appearances before the police, with the final session spanning 19 hours overnight. He had left the police station on Christmas Eve. Although he declined to respond to reporters’ inquiries regarding the charges against him, he had stated that he was fully cooperating with the investigation.
The news of Lee Sun-kyun’s untimely demise emerged after he was found dead in a car at a park in Seoul, following reports of his disappearance.
Members of the film industry have paid their respects at the memorial established for Lee, including “Parasite” director Bong Joon-ho and Lee Jung-jae, known for his role in the Netflix hit series “Squid Game.”
The investigation into Lee Sun-kyun’s allegations comes amid a broader crackdown by the government of conservative President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has termed it a “war on drugs.” South Korea has stringent drug laws that not only penalize individuals found guilty of drug abuse but also impose severe punishments on drug dealers, with potential prison sentences of up to 14 years.
As the nation grapples with the loss of a beloved actor and the ongoing investigation, questions regarding the nature of the probe and the larger issue of handling high-profile cases have come to the forefront, prompting discussions about the need for a balanced approach in law enforcement and media reporting.
