Actor Son Seung-won Gets Double Sentence in Second Trial for Fifth Drunk Driving Offense

Actor Son Seung-won has been handed a heavier sentence of two years in prison during his second trial for his fifth drunk driving conviction. The Seoul Western District Court's Criminal Appeals Division 1 overturned the initial one-year sentence, which had led to his detention.

The prosecution had appealed the first sentence, deeming it too lenient, and had sought four years imprisonment in the appellate hearing. The court cited Son's "poor criminal record" as a significant factor in its decision. The judges pointed to his actions after being caught, including instructing his girlfriend to hide evidence and making false statements to the 대리기사 (designated driver).

During the incident, Son's blood alcohol content was measured at 0.165%, well above the legal limit. He drove approximately 7 kilometers while under the influence and, in a particularly dangerous maneuver, drove against traffic for about 1 minute and 30 seconds on the Gangbyeon Expressway. The court emphasized the severity of these actions in its sentencing.