Korean pop star Jung Il-hoon, popularly known as Ilhoon from BTOB, is currently under investigation regarding charges for drug abuse, which is illegal in South Korea.
About Ilhoon and BTOB
BTOB is a K-pop boy band that got its first break in 2012. It is known for several hits like ‘Missing You’ and ‘Only One For Me’. Ilhoon was not only a rapper but also wrote songs for the band which includes ‘Movie’ and ‘The Winter’s Tale’.
The Law in South Korea
Consuming or carrying drugs has been illegal since the enforcement of the Narcotics Control Act in 2000 in South Korea. However, certain exceptions have been added in 2018 to allow the use of marijuana for medical purposes. The accused, if found guilty, could be penalized to rigorous imprisonment up to 5 years or a fine of up to 50 million won.
The Claims by The Police
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency has claimed that Ilhoon has been consuming marijuana for 4-5 years, according to the statements by his accomplices and tracking their accounts. Furthermore, the police demand that Ilhoon should be indicted for legal proceedings under the charges of the violation of the Narcotics Control Act.
The police further state that Ilhoon bought marijuana by depositing cash in the account of one of his acquaintances, who later converted it into cryptocurrency. This was done in multiple transactions to avoid getting detected. Earlier this year, traces of drugs were also found in Ilhoon’s hair sample.
The Response by Cube
Cube Entertainment, the band’s management agency, initially claimed to be unaware of the fact that Ilhoon was undergoing police investigation and added that he was supposed to enlist for compulsory military service in March but it got delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The 26-year old is the last among the band members to enlist and is currently performing his military duties as a public service worker since May.
In a later statement, Cube has said that the management was filled with the details regarding the charges against Ilhoon and it feels a sense of responsibility towards people. The agency has also said that it will cooperate with the investigations and also persuade Ilhoon to do the same.
Ilhoon will be discharged from service in 2022.
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