Yoo Ah-in's detention extended as appeal trial for drug charges approaches

On October 18, 2024, allkpop reported that Yoo Ah-in’s detention was extended by two months by the Seoul High Court’s Criminal Division 5. This followed his initial conviction on September 3, 2024, when he was sentenced to one year in prison for violating drug control laws. Yoo Ah-in has appealed the sentence, and under South Korean law, the detention period for a defendant awaiting a final ruling is limited to two months.

However, if deemed necessary, the court can extend this period twice, each time for up to two additional months. The appeal trial is set to begin on October 29, 2024.

Yoo Ah-in, who is facing charges related to the illegal use of substances, including propofol and marijuana, has enlisted a defense team that includes both a former judge and prosecutor specializing in drug-related cases.

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Yoo Ah-in's drug controversy: All we know so far

Yoo Ah-in's legal battles began in October of last year when he was indicted for alleged habitual propofol use, obtaining sleeping pills under another name, marijuana smoking, and attempting to destroy evidence. Prosecutors also alleged that between September 2020 and March 2022, the actor repeatedly used propofol at various hospitals in Seoul and obtained drugs illegally under false identities.

Moving forward to December 2023, Yoo admitted to using marijuana but denied other allegations, including encouraging others to use it and tampering with evidence.

As per the Korea Times, in his initial trial, the actor was found guilty of several charges, including habitual use of medical drugs and obtaining drugs illegally. He was acquitted of marijuana possession, encouraging its use, and tampering with evidence.

According to South Korean media outlet Korea JoongAng Daily, the court acknowledged the seriousness of the crime, noting his misuse of loopholes in drug regulations and a high dependency on these substances. However, the sentence took into consideration his mental health struggles, sincere confession, and efforts to combat his addiction.

Yoo's long-term battle with insomnia and depression was seen as a factor behind his habitual drug use. As per Korea JoongAng Daily, the court stated,

“Mr. Yoo had suffered from depression for a long time, and the main reason he habitually took medication was likely the pain of not being able to sleep. We took into account the fact that Mr. Yoo honestly confessed to his drug addiction and continued efforts to overcome it.”

As a result, the court sentenced him to one year in prison, a fine of 200,000 won, and mandated participation in an 80-hour drug treatment program. Prosecutors have appealed the sentencing, arguing it was too lenient, initially seeking a four-year prison term.

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Moreover, as per The Straights Times, a 30-year-old man filed a complaint against Yoo Ah-in for alleged se*ual assault. However, all charges were dropped, and the case against the actor was closed on September 19 due to insufficient evidence.