Lee Byung Hun expresses his apologetic heart to the public and his wife after arriving in Korea with Lee Min Jung

Lee Byung Hun and Lee Min Jung finally returned to Korea today after their extended stay in the States. The couple arrived at the airport and were greeted by the press and fans who had gathered at the gates. It was here that Lee Byung Hun, who had stayed out of the spotlight for 3 months, faced the camera to express his thoughts on all that's happened.

After safely guiding his pregnant wife Lee Min Jung towards the exit, the actor returned to talk to the press and publicly speak on the recent controversy for the first time.

Looking nervous and remorseful, the actor stayed silent for a moment before stating, "I should have apologized to you all earlier, and I'm sorry that I didn't."

"As a public figure, and as a man of a household, I'm sorry that I have brought on disappointment. Because this is something that had started because of me, it's right that I alone should receive the blame. I know well what you are all disappointed about, but because of my foolishness, a long period of time has passed like this. I know many have been hurt and disappointed by me. I will deeply reflect and try harder as I live on."

He paused a bit before going on to say, "Most of all, I'm indebted to my wife and family to the point that I could never repay them. I want to apologize to all of you once again. I am sorry."

Meanwhile, the prosecution has submitted their appeal to the court asking for a more severe sentence for Lee Ji Yeon and Dahee for their blackmail, while Lee Byung Hun has asked that they be pardoned.