Creatives Demand Investigation into Security of Information
South Korean creatives, including Bong Joon-ho, have called on officials to conduct a thorough investigation into the security of information related to the police investigation of actor Lee Jong-Hyun. The creatives argue that Lee had faced “severe character assassination” prior to his death and are urging for revisions of laws to protect human rights in criminal investigations.
Allegations Stem from Bar Hostess
Media outlet Yonhap News Agency has reported that the investigation into Lee Jong-Hyun stemmed from allegations made by a bar hostess. The hostess claimed that the actor had done drugs at her residence. However, Lee had filed a lawsuit asserting that he was being blackmailed by the hostess before his death. He maintained that he was tricked into taking drugs, including marijuana, by a hostess at a high-end bar in Seoul and was unaware of their nature.
Passing Drug Tests and Polygraph
Throughout the investigation, Lee Jong-Hyun successfully passed two drug tests and offered to take a polygraph to prove his innocence. In fact, the actor even participated in questioning that lasted for 19 hours the weekend before his death. However, the investigation sparked extensive tabloid coverage and unconfirmed online rumors about Lee’s private life.
Apology to Family and Fans
After being summoned for questioning by police in Incheon, Lee Jong-Hyun apologized to his family and fans, acknowledging the difficult pain they were enduring. He expressed sincere remorse to everyone affected by the situation.
Investigation Closure and Continued Focus
Following Lee’s tragic death, Incheon police closed the investigation into his alleged drug use. However, they continued to investigate the two individuals named in his lawsuit. The impact of Lee’s death has raised significant concerns, leading to calls for a thorough probe into the circumstances surrounding the security of information related to the police investigation.
Award-Winning Actor’s Legacy
Lee Jong-Hyun gained international fame in 2020 after his film won the prestigious Academy Award for Best Picture, as well as in three other categories. The film made history as the first non-English-language movie to win Best Picture and the first South Korean film to receive an Oscar.
(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)