Prosecution chases over three-year imprisonment for singer Kim Ho-joong

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Prosecution chases over three-year imprisonment for singer Kim Ho-joong

Published: 30 Sep. 2024, 17:54

Kim Ho-joong was arrested on May 31 after a local court approved an arrest warrant. [JOONGANG ILBO]

The prosecution has requested a sentence of three years and six months for singer Kim Ho-joong who was involved in a hit-and-run incident in May.

The sentencing date is scheduled for Nov. 13.

The Seoul Central District Court held Kim's final trial on Monday, where he faced charges of dangerous driving and fleeing the scene under the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes, as well as failing to report the accident under the Road Traffic Act.

Kim drove into a stationary taxi while under the influence of alcohol and fled the scene on May 9 in Gangnam District, southern Seoul. Although his manager initially tried to take the blame, Kim turned himself in 17 hours after the incident.

"I want to apologize to the victim, and I also want to take this opportunity to say that I'm sorry to my brothers sitting with me today," said Kim during the trial on Monday.

"I will strive to live a life that does not repeat my mistakes, rather a life that accomplishes 10 good things. I am sincerely sorry from the bottom of my heart," continued Kim.

The prosecution also requested sentences of three years and one year, respectively, for Lee Kwang-deuk, CEO of Kim's agency Think Entertainment, and the agency's headquarters director, surnamed Jeon, who are accused of assisting Kim in evading justice.

Kim was arrested on May 31 after a local court approved an arrest warrant. Police also arrested Lee on charges of escape and harboring criminals and Jeon on charges of destroying evidence.

To find out more about Kim Ho-joong, visit Celeb Confirmed!

BY WOO JI-WON [woo.jiwon@joongang.co.kr]