"What he needed was help"- Fans react as Yoo Ah-in sentenced to four years in prison for habitual drug consumption     

On December 24, 2024, the South Korean media outlet My Daily reported that the prosecution requested four years of imprisonment for Yoo Ah-in regarding his habitual drug consumption. The latest news sent the internet into shock.

The fifth Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court was presided over by judges, including Kwon Soon-hyung, Ahn Seung-hoon, and Shim Seung-woo. They held the final hearing for the appeal trial. He was charged with violating the Narcotics Control Act.

According to the publication, the prosecution demanded a sentence of four years in prison for Yoo Ah-in. In response, the male actor requested leniency at the second trial. He promised to reform himself. Subsequently, the latest news about the artist's four-year imprisonment circulated like wildfire on social media.

The K-drama and K-pop Communities united to raise their voice against the prosecution's request. An X user tweeted that Yoo Ah-in needed help and not the wrath of the public.

"Yoo ah in is treated worse than people that commit crimes against women and children, he took drugs harmful to himself and the whole country decided to prosecute him like it's a murder trial, what he needed was help not public execution even drunk drivers dnt get this punishment."

The fandom stated that he needed rehabilitation. Many also confessed that they were sad about his condition and extended help virtually. However, some angry fans mentioned that the people who committed heinous crimes were roaming around freely, and it was unjustified for Yoo Ah-in.

"Can they actually leave him alone?? They’re acting like he’s a drug lord or something. Actors will literally r*pe and a*sault people and still win awards and direct movies. Matter of fact, they’ll go on and cast in Netflix’s most popular tv show."- a fan reacted.

"mind you they got m*rders and r*pists walking off with TIME SERVED and community service. he needs rehab pls,"- a fan mentioned.

"i’m so sad for him :( this isn’t fair at all,"- a fan commented.

"God, he deserves so much better. This is heartbreaking,"- a user reacted.

The internet users stated that Yoo Ah-in's fans would always be there to support him.

"After every dark night, the sun will rise again. You are strong, capable and deserving of support. We are always here for you. I think your fans all over the world are crying with you today, but I believe that one day you and your fans will be smiling together again,"- a user reacted.

"Omggg. he needs to be in rehab not prison,"- a user shared.

"yeah bcs putting him in prison instead of actually getting him help is smart…they make zero sense to me,"- a user commented.

"He needs medical treatment, not jail ! Meanwhile, drinking alcohol is ALLOWED although it is one of the main cause(maybe the main cause) of domestic violence, accidents and even crimes,"- a user mentioned.

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Yoo Ah-in's leniency statement at the court

According to the outlet, Yoo Ah-in donned a mint-colored prison uniform during his appearance in the second trial in the courtroom. Following the prosecution's argument, he released his final statement.

The male actor mentioned that he wanted to apologize to people who had been hurt and disappointed because of him. He confessed that he had disappointed his parents.

He stated he was apologetic for causing hurt to his colleagues and associates who placed unconditional trust in him. He mentioned that he betrayed his close ones. He further added about the time he served in correction and said:

"I am grateful for the time of reflection and am working on correction and recovery. I pledge with firm resolve in front of those here and the public watching my remarks, and I swear in this sacred court."

He further concluded his argument by bowing in front of the public and mentioned:

"No matter when or where I am, I will not lose the gravity of my crime and will not betray my conscience with a righteous mind. I earnestly ask that you allow me to demonstrate my firm resolve to learn and live in society. I will face the world more maturely and healthily."

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Yoo Ah-in's next trial is slated to be held on February 18, 2025.