'Parasite' star Lee Sun-kyun investigated over alleged drug use
South Korean actor Lee Sun-kyun, known for his role in the black comedy film Parasite, is facing investigations after claims of his drug use have reached local authorities.
In reports by Yonhap News Agency and Soompi, authorities from the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency started an investigation on the actor along with seven other people over allegations that they took illegal drugs multiple times this year.
"While investigating drug-related activities primarily within entertainment establishments in Gangnam, we obtained information that a celebrity is involved in drug use. We are currently conducting an internal investigation involving eight individuals including L, a male actor in his 40s," the police confirmed.
Lee is yet to be officially named as a suspect and no explanation has been given on what substance he has consumed. However, his involvement came after police discovered a "lead in connection with the actor's illegal activities."
Following this, Lee's agency, HODU&U Entertainment, released a statement addressing the issue surrounding the actor.
"We sincerely apologize for causing concerns over reports about actor Lee Sun-kyun," the company stated as translated by Soompi.
"Our company is currently in the process of verifying the specific facts related to the allegations raised against Lee Sun Gyun. We are committed to cooperating fully with any investigations conducted by relevant authorities with utmost sincerity and honesty in the future," it added.
According to the agency, Lee had already taken action on the matter after he filed a complaint against another person allegedly involved in the same group "for continuous blackmail and threats." The extortionist is said to have caused Lee to lose a significant amount of money.
"It is true that L provided a significant amount of money to the drug supplier while engaged in marijuana use. We estimate the amount to be around 300 million won (P12 million)," an official from the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency detailed.
Aside from Parasite, Lee has also achieved fame through his other film roles such as the psychological thriller Helpless, romantic comedy All About My Wife, psychological drama My Mister, and crime comedy A Hard Day.
The 48-year-old actor has won numerous awards and recognitions throughout his career, such as a Screen Actors Guild Award for his role in Parasite as well as a nomination for an International Emmy Award.