Prosecutors Seek 3-Year Prison Sentence for Doctor Who Used Drugs After Surgery and Member of Drug Club 'Kkanbu'

The prosecution has demanded a three-year prison sentence for an ophthalmologist, a graduate of a 'Big 5' hospital, who was tried on charges of jointly using drugs with members of the united club 'Kkanbu,' which consists of students from prestigious universities in the Seoul metropolitan area.

Yonhap News

The Criminal Division 14 of the Seoul Southern District Court (Presiding Judge Jang Seong-hoon) held a sentencing hearing on the morning of the 2nd for Dr. Lee, a doctor in his 30s, and club member Bae, in his 20s, who are accused of violating the Narcotics Control Act (psychotropic substances). The prosecution requested a three-year prison sentence and a fine of 300,000 won for Dr. Lee.

The prosecution stated, "It is rightfully condemnable that despite knowing there was surgery scheduled that day, he drank alcohol and used drugs during the early morning hours," adding, "Before his arrest, he did not provide the password to his mobile phone. Although he later provided the phone, forensic analysis revealed that some case-related data had already been deleted."

Dr. Lee's defense attorney said, "The defendant admits all charges and is deeply remorseful," and added, "Regardless of the circumstances, committing such a crime as a doctor is a grave mistake, and he sincerely regrets it." In his final statement, Dr. Lee appealed, "I deeply reflect on the fact that my actions and responses were inappropriate," and "I deeply regret ignoring the expectations society has for medical professionals, showing a bystander attitude, or appearing to condone illegal acts."

Meanwhile, the prosecution requested a two-year prison sentence and a fine of 1,060,000 won for Mr. Bae. The prosecution noted, "His active cooperation with the investigation is a favorable factor," but also said, "He is currently undergoing an appellate trial for a separate case, and the fact that this offense is connected to that is an unfavorable factor."

Mr. Bae stated in his final remarks, "I vow not to touch drugs again when I return to society," and "I will live with awareness and abide by the law."

Dr. Lee is accused of wandering around clubs in Gangnam after using drugs in October of last year, repeatedly using drugs during early morning hours over a month, and performing surgeries on seven patients at the hospital while under the influence. It was revealed that Dr. Lee worked as a clinical instructor at a top-tier hospital in Seoul for nine years, directly performing surgeries, which allowed him easy access to narcotics.

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