'Drug Charges' B.I Receives Suspended Sentence in First Trial

Former idol group iKON member B.I, who was indicted on drug administration charges [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] Former member of the idol group iKON, B.I (25, Kim Hanbin), who is accused of drug use, was sentenced to a suspended prison term in the first trial.

On the 10th at 1:50 PM, the Seoul Central District Court Criminal Division 25-3 (Presiding Judge Park Sarang) sentenced B.I, who was indicted for violating the Narcotics Control Act, to 3 years in prison with a 4-year suspension. He was also ordered to complete 80 hours of community service, attend 40 hours of drug treatment lectures, and pay a fine of 1.5 million KRW.

The court stated, "This crime cannot be seen as simply out of curiosity, and the handling of narcotics by entertainers dilutes public and youth awareness, having a significant impact on society," but added, "the defendant admits and reflects on the crime, his parents have pledged to guide him, and he appears to maintain good social ties with those around him."

Previously, B.I was brought to trial for smoking marijuana three times in 2016 when he was 19 years old and for purchasing LSD, a type of narcotic.

B.I admitted to all charges. In his final statement, B.I pleaded for leniency, saying, "I made a foolish mistake that hurt my family and many others. I will never make the same mistake again." B.I's father, who was present at the trial, said, "I was immature and foolish as well. As a parent, I will take full responsibility and protect him until the end."

The prosecutor requested the court to "sentence the defendant to 3 years in prison and order a fine of 1.5 million KRW," stating, "The defendant seemed to have considerable interest in narcotics at the time and committed this crime despite being a beloved entertainer to the public."

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