South Korean actor Go Kyung-pyo (고경표) is facing backlash after being involved in a drunk driving accident. The actor, heavily intoxicated and well over the legal limit for license revocation, collided with a street sweeper while driving. CCTV footage of the aftermath has now been released, showing sanitation workers rushing to the scene, while Go Kyung-pyo, upon exiting his vehicle, calmly circled his car to assess the damage first, sparking widespread public outrage.
On October 14, Korean media outlet Yonhap News TV (연합뉴스TV) released CCTV footage from after the accident. The video shows Go Kyung-pyo's vehicle driving along a road, followed by a sanitation worker rushing after it. Shortly after, the car stops, and Go Kyung-pyo exits the driver's seat, proceeding to walk around his car to check its condition.
He was then seen conversing with individuals believed to be involved in the other party of the accident. Upon the police's arrival, Go Kyung-pyo underwent a breathalyzer test. After completing the necessary procedures, he was allowed to return home.
The incident occurred around 3:30 AM on October 14, on a road in Donggyo-dong, Mapo District, Seoul. Go Kyung-pyo was allegedly driving his private car while intoxicated when he collided with a street sweeper that was performing its duties on the road. Police breathalyzer results showed his blood alcohol content (BAC) was 0.150%. Given that the standard for driver's license revocation in Korea is 0.08%, his BAC was nearly double the legal limit, indicating a severely intoxicated state. It is understood that there were no other passengers in the car at the time.
The release of the footage showing Go Kyung-pyo checking his own vehicle first after the accident, coupled with his BAC being far above the license revocation standard, has intensified public criticism.
As the incident gained traction, Go Kyung-pyo's agency, CL&Company, promptly issued an apology, officially acknowledging the drunk driving accident. The company stated, "We deeply apologize to those who were harmed by actor Go Kyung-pyo's drunk driving accident, and we sincerely apologize for causing disappointment and concern to everyone who has always believed in and supported him."
The agency also revealed that Go Kyung-pyo has admitted his mistake and is deeply reflecting. He will humbly accept any penalties and will do his best to compensate the victims for their damages and take full responsibility.
This drunk driving scandal is expected to impact Go Kyung-pyo's future acting career. The production team of the MBC variety show “Hangout with Yoo?” (놀면 뭐하니?), which was scheduled to air that day, announced that they would minimize Go Kyung-pyo's appearances to reduce viewer discomfort.
Additionally, his previously scheduled fan meeting has been completely canceled. His upcoming dramas and other entertainment activities are also likely to be significantly affected.
