Actor Ha Jung-woo sentenced to ₩30 million fine for propofol abuse

Actor Ha Jung-woo attends his final trial for propofol abuse at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho District, southern Seoul, on Tuesday. [PARK SE-WAN]

Actor Ha Jung-woo was sentenced to a fine of 30 million won ($25,600) on Tuesday for abusing the hypnotic sedative propofol. Tuesday’s sentencing took place at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho District, southern Seoul.

Last month, Ha pleaded guilty to abusing propofol and prosecutors sought to impose a fine of 10 million won.

The ruling judge reasoned that Ha's “liability is especially heavy as an actor who is loved by the public” but also took into consideration that his propofol use happened during dermatological treatments, along with the fact that he admitted to his charges and has no criminal record.

“I have nothing special to say about the ruling," Ha told the press as he exited the court. "I will humbly accept the result, and will be careful to live a healthy life."

Ha was convicted of abusing propofol between January and September of 2019 at a plastic surgeon’s clinic. Although the actor claims it was for medical purposes to alleviate pain during procedures, the court ruled that Ha fabricated his medical records with his doctor to make it seem like the propofol was administered to his acquaintance instead.

BY HALEY YANG [yang.hyunjoo@joongang.co.kr]