Chef Lim Seong-geun, who recently confessed to a history of habitual drunk driving and announced a suspension of his broadcasting activities, has once again found himself at the center of controversy after giving ambiguous answers to the public's questions.
In response to a netizen's question about how many times he had driven under the influence, Lim stated that the number of times is not important; if he has done it even once, it is inherently wrong. He added that he reflects on his past mistakes, which are not something to be proud of, and expressed his determination not to repeat them, bowing his head in apology.
Previously, Lim revealed on his YouTube channel that he had been caught drunk driving three times over the past ten years. He explained that he enjoys drinking and made mistakes, stating that he was caught by the police after falling asleep in his car while intoxicated, resulting in criminal penalties and the cancellation of his license, which he later regained. In a handwritten apology he released afterward, he acknowledged that there is no excuse for his actions and mentioned that he has spent the last few years in self-reflection.
However, following Lim's confession, the broadcasting industry moved quickly to sever ties with him. His appearance on JTBC's "Knowing Bros," scheduled for recording in February, was abruptly canceled, and both KBS 2TV's "New Release Pyeon Restaurant" and MBC's "What Do You Do When You Play?" also decided to cancel their filming.
MBC's "All-Seeing Assistant" had already completed filming and was set to air on the 24th, but it is currently under internal discussion regarding whether to broadcast. Additionally, YouTube channel "Salon Drip" and SBS's "Same Bed, Different Dreams 2 - You Are My Destiny," which were considering his appearance, have also decided to cancel his participation, effectively leading to his exit from the broadcasting scene.
The public is sending cold stares, arguing that three instances of drunk driving cannot simply be dismissed as mistakes. Particularly, suspicions have arisen that his explanations during the confession differ from the actual circumstances, suggesting that criticism against Chef Lim Seong-geun is likely to continue for the time being.
