'Drug Charges' B.I "Reflecting, Please Show Leniency"... Prosecution Seeks '3 Years Imprisonment'

Former iKON member B.I, who was indicted on drug administration charges, is attending the first trial held at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul, on the morning of the 27th. [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] The prosecution has requested a three-year prison sentence for B.I (25, Kim Hanbin), a former member of the idol group iKON, who is accused of drug use.

On the 27th, the prosecution asked the court at 11 a.m. during the first trial of B.I on charges including violation of the Narcotics Control Act, held at the Seoul Central District Court Criminal Division 25-3 (Presiding Judge Park Sarang), to "sentence him to three years in prison and order a fine of 1.5 million won." They also pointed out, "The defendant appeared to have a significant interest in narcotics at the time," and "Despite being a celebrity loved by the public, he committed such a crime."

Earlier, B.I was indicted for smoking marijuana three times in 2016 when he was 19 years old and for purchasing LSD, a type of drug.

B.I’s side admitted all charges. His lawyer said, "The defendant deeply regrets and is sincerely reflecting on his actions," and added, "He has actively engaged in social service and donation activities and plans to continue doing so. We ask for leniency so that he can contribute to society again as a healthy member."

Wearing a dark suit and tie, B.I appeared in court and said, "I made a very foolish mistake and hurt many people, including my family. I will never make the same mistake again," and asked the judge, "Please give me one more chance." B.I’s father, who was present at the trial, said, "I was immature and foolish too. As a parent, I will take full responsibility and protect him until the end."

The court will announce the verdict on the 10th of next month at 1:50 p.m.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.