Mukbang YouTuber SangHyuk, who has 1.65 million subscribers, has admitted to and apologized for a drunk driving incident and fleeing the scene. This comes approximately eight months after the incident occurred.
On the 10th, SangHyuk posted a video titled "Hello, this is SangHyuk" on his YouTube channel and appeared before the camera. Dressed in a white tracksuit, SangHyuk stated, "Although it is a bit late, I would like to bow my head and apologize for the irreversible mistake I have made. I drove under the influence last September. This was my third offense, following incidents in 2020 and 2021."
He continued, "I am well aware that I have caused great disappointment and hurt to those who trusted and supported me. I am sincerely sorry. I got behind the wheel with the complacent thought that the distance was short or that I felt sober. I am deeply reflecting on how dangerous and irresponsible that choice was." He bowed his head, adding, "I believe the criticism and disappointment you are sending my way are justified. I will not make excuses. I committed an act that deserves to be criticized. I will clearly record my wrongdoing to the world and ensure I never repeat the same mistake."
Previously, SangHyuk was accused of driving under the influence from Gangnam-gu to Songpa-gu in Seoul in the early hours of September 21 last year, and then fleeing to avoid police pursuit. It was reported that he stopped his vehicle in the middle of the road, fled with a passenger, and was apprehended by police after running for about 300 meters. He reportedly also refused to comply with a breathalyzer test at the scene.
SangHyuk, a former trainer who primarily created mukbang content, had been actively selling meal kits until his DUI was discovered. However, after the incident, CCTV footage showing him fleeing through a residential area with a female passenger to avoid police was released, leading him to halt all activities.
Many are reacting coldly to SangHyuk's public apology. Given that the apology video was released months after the incident and that this was his third DUI offense, many are questioning whether this is a forced apology intended to resume his broadcasting career.
Finally, SangHyuk added, "I also apologize for my cowardice in not coming forward with a statement sooner," and "I once again bow my head and sincerely apologize to everyone who was disappointed by my irresponsible behavior."
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Kyung-youn)