Actor Yoo Ah In (real name Uhm Hong Sik, 38), who was sentenced to prison for habitual drug use, appealed for leniency after being sentenced to 4 years in prison by the prosecution in the second trial.

On the 24th, the 5th Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court (Presiding Judge Kwon Soon Hyeong, Ahn Seung Hoon, Shim Seung Woo) held a final hearing for Yoo Ah In’s appeal on charges of violating the Narcotics Control Act (psychotropic substances).

On this day, Yoo Ah In entered the courtroom wearing a mint-colored prison uniform, as he had during the previous trial. After the witness examination, the prosecution stated, "The sentence should be the same as the original," and requested a 4-year prison term, consistent with the first trial.

In his closing statement, Yoo Ah In said, "I apologize to those who have been hurt and disappointed by my actions. I have caused irreparable harm to my parents, and to my colleagues, supporters, and fans who gave me their infinite trust. It was a betrayal and a crime. I deeply regret it."

He continued, saying he had been reflecting constantly on the case while in detention, adding, "I am grateful for this time of reflection and am committed to rehabilitation and recovery. I make this vow with a firm resolve in front of those who are watching my words here and the public, and I swear before this sacred court."

Finally, Yoo Ah In said, "Wherever I am, I will never lose sight of the gravity of my crime and will not abandon my conscience with a right mind. I sincerely ask for an opportunity to show my firm will to contribute to society through learning and life. I will face the world with more maturity and health," bowing his head.

Previously, Yoo Ah In was indicted in October of last year for repeatedly using substances such as propofol and ketamine 181 times between September 2020 and March 2022, and for receiving illegal prescriptions for sleeping pills under someone else’s name 44 times. He is also accused of smoking marijuana in the United States with four accomplices, including his acquaintance Choi, and instructing YouTuber Kim to witness and participate in the act.

In the first trial held last September, Yoo Ah In was sentenced to 1 year in prison and a 2 million won fine. However, the court found insufficient evidence to convict him on charges of teaching marijuana use or instructing the destruction of evidence, and acquitted him on those charges. The prosecution appealed, seeking a heavier sentence, and Yoo Ah In’s side also filed an appeal against the first trial’s decision.

In the previous appeal, Yoo Ah In’s defense team argued, "He did not intentionally violate the law or regulations, but developed an addiction to sedative drugs due to an already physically and mentally difficult situation," and they also pleaded for leniency, mentioning that he had lost his father in August.

Meanwhile, Yoo Ah In’s second trial ruling is scheduled for February 18 next year.

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