Actor Song Young Kyu has been referred to prosecutors for drunk driving after police confirmed he drove under heavy intoxication in June 2025, risking his ongoing and upcoming drama roles.
The Yongin Dongbu Police Station in Gyeonggi Province transferred Song Young Kyu to the Suwon District Prosecutors’ Office without detention for violating the Road Traffic Act. The incident occurred on June 19, 2025, when Song drove roughly 5 kilometers while heavily intoxicated from Giheung to Cheoin District in Yongin City. Police acted after a witness reported a suspected drunk driver.
A breathalyzer test revealed Song’s blood alcohol concentration exceeded 0.08%, the legal threshold for license revocation. Police confirmed he had been drinking with acquaintances before driving himself home. Specific investigation details remain undisclosed.
Song Young Kyu’s Career and Ongoing Projects
Song Young Kyu debuted in 1994 through the children’s musical “Wizard Mureul” and became a respected supporting actor in K-dramas and films. He currently plays Pastor Yoon Se Hoon in ENA’s “Eye Shopping” and was set to appear as Coach Kim Min Joong in SBS’s new rugby-themed drama “Try: We Become Miracles”, premiering July 25, 2025.
The timing of the DUI scandal coincides with the drama’s release, raising concerns about its impact on promotions. SBS has not yet commented on whether Song’s role will be affected.
Industry Reactions and Legal Consequences
Drunk driving is a serious offense in South Korea, often leading to career repercussions. Past cases, like Kim Min-hee’s 2019 DUI, resulted in public backlash and project delays. Legal experts suggest Song could face fines, license suspension, or mandatory community service.
Fans expressed disappointment on social media, with mixed reactions:
“How could someone so talented make such a reckless choice?” – @kdrama_fan22
“Hope he reflects deeply and makes better decisions. His work in ‘Eye Shopping’ is too good to lose.” – @dramalover91
Upcoming Drama “Try: We Become Miracles” Faces Uncertainty
“Try: We Become Miracles” stars Yoon Kye-sang as a disgraced rugby coach redeeming himself with a high school team. Song’s role as a rival coach was expected to add tension. SBS may reshoot scenes or recast if legal proceedings disrupt filming.
The production team has not addressed his involvement post-scandal. Meanwhile, co-stars Lim Se-mi and Kim Yo-han continue promoting the drama, which remains on schedule for its July 25 premiere.
Past DUI Cases in the Korean Entertainment Industry
Other actors, including Kwon Sang-woo (2006) and Jung Joon-young (2016), faced severe backlash after DUIs. Some rebuilt their careers after public apologies, while others faded from prominence. Song’s future may hinge on his response and public forgiveness.
What’s Next for Song Young Kyu?
Prosecutors will review the case and decide on charges. Song’s agency, HODU&U Entertainment, has yet to issue a statement. Industry insiders suggest a public apology is crucial to mitigating damage.
For now, audiences await updates on his role in “Try: We Become Miracles” and potential legal outcomes.
Source: News1
