Nam Tae Hyun and 'Heart Signal' contestant Seo Min Jae have both admitted their charges related to the possession of methamphetamine. Both publicly apologized for their actions at the first trial, held on the morning of October 19 at the Seoul Western District Court.
Dressed in a black suit, Nam Tae Hyun expressed deep remorse and took responsibility for the harm he had caused society. He stated, "I am currently in a drug rehabilitation center, reflecting on my actions every day." Taking his experience a step further, he affirmed his commitment to helping address societal issues with drug abuse, stating, "Beyond personal reflection, in a society where drug problems have become serious, I will take public responsibility and do what I can. I will strive to be a person who can exert a positive influence without any further controversy or incidents."
Seo Min Jae also expressed her regret, stating, "I am sorry. I will accept the decision made by the court." It was revealed before the trial began that she had legally changed her name to Seo Eun Woo, a move she stated was about starting fresh and not related to any ulterior motive.
According to the prosecution, the celebrities procured and consumed 0.5 g of methamphetamine in August 2022. They allegedly diluted the drug in alcohol and ingested it at their place of residence.
Furthermore, Nam Tae Hyun is accused of additional consumption of 0.2 g of methamphetamine, diluted in water in December 2022. Both admitted to the charges in court, but Seo Min Jae requested an investigation before the final verdict.
Once the hearing was concluded, Nam Tae Hyun reiterated his apology to his fans, vowing to lead an honest life as a public figure. Seo Min Jae re-emphasized his regret a few minutes later.
The pair are facing charges for jointly using methamphetamine at Seo Min Jae’s residence in the Yongsan District of Seoul in August last year. Nam Tae Hyun is additionally being charged with consuming methamphetamine alone overseas.
Previously, in May, the Yongsan Police Station in Seoul requested arrest warrants for the two, but these were denied by the court. As a result, the Seoul Western District Prosecutor's Office has indicted Nam Tae Hyun and Seo Min Jae without detention.
Nam Tae Hyun’s contrite behavior, commitment to rehabilitation, and Seo Min Jae’s cooperation with the ongoing investigation were mentioned by the prosecution during the indictment. In August, Nam Tae Hyun even launched a YouTube channel from his rehabilitation center to share his journey and bring attention to the issue of drug addiction. Furthermore, he attended the parliamentary audit of the Health and Welfare Committee in Yeouido on October 12 to lobby government support for drug rehabilitation initiatives.
The second trial is scheduled for December 7 at 10:20 AM.
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