License Revoked, Man Arrested Again for Drunk Driving While Asleep at Wheel

Seoul police have arrested a man in his early twenties for a repeat offense of drunk driving, highlighting a persistent problem on the city's roads. The suspect, identified only as 'A', was apprehended after being found asleep at the wheel of his vehicle in the Yeongdeungpo district. This incident is particularly egregious as 'A' had his driver's license revoked in October 2023 following a previous drunk driving conviction that resulted in a traffic accident, and he was on probation at the time of his latest offense.

According to police reports, 'A' had consumed alcohol before driving approximately 4 kilometers from the vicinity of Hongik University Station to the southern end of Mapo Bridge. Upon being stopped by officers, he was found to be sleeping in his car on the road. His blood alcohol concentration was measured at a level that would warrant license suspension, compounding the severity of his actions.

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Given the significant social danger of drunk driving and the concern for repeat offenses, we actively explained the need for detention to the court and obtained an arrest warrant.

The Yeongdeungpo Police Station emphasized the significant social danger posed by drunk driving and the high risk of recidivism in this case. Consequently, they actively pursued and obtained an arrest warrant, citing the necessity of detention. The police have vowed to intensify drunk driving enforcement operations and adopt a strict response, including arrests and vehicle confiscations, for habitual offenders.

This arrest serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of impaired driving and the challenges law enforcement faces in deterring repeat offenders. The incident underscores the need for continued public awareness campaigns and stringent enforcement to ensure road safety in Seoul.

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We will strengthen drunk driving crackdowns and respond strictly to habitual drunk drivers with measures such as arrest and vehicle confiscation.