Shin Jung Hwan, who was previously under indictment for compulsive gambling overseas, has been sentenced to eight months of prison. On May 3rd, Lee Jong Eon, the chief prosecuting attorney of the Seoul Central District Court, explained, "After arriving in Cebu, Shin Jung Hwan gambled with money that he did not have. Despite having a commitment to a broadcast show, he did not return and failed to show responsibility as a public figure. Although he confessed to his crime, he has several criminal records, and taking all of that into account, his crime is not a light one." He continued, "The fact that he used the money he made from receiving the love of his fans for gambling, and for the fact that he is a public figure, he cannot avoid a penalty for his actions." In the first court date on May 18th, prosecutors had asked that he be imprisoned for one full year. Shin's lawyer argued that he himself was well aware of his crimes and asked for favorable arrangements. His lawyer said, "Shin Jung Hwan has admitted what he's done wrong and is reflecting on his actions. He's not in good health and is in need of consistent treatment. I ask for favorable arrangements." Shin Jung Hwan added, "I would like to apologize for concerning others as a public figure. I am deeply aware of my mistake and promise to live by giving back to society." Prosecutors argued that he gambled with a total of $10,500 USD in Cebu on August 28th and 29th of last year. He then returned to the same casino on the 31st through September 5th and gambled once again with an additional $200,000 USD he had borrowed. Shin has had previous offenses of compulsive gambling in July of 2003 and December of 2005. Source + Photos: Star News via Nate