Actor Kim Sung-min’s alleged use of illegal drugs has sent shock throughout the domestic entertainment industry.

Kim, an actor and cast member of popular reality show “Happy Sunday -- The Qualities of a Man,” was arrested Friday at his apartment in Yeoksam-dong, Seoul, for using illegal drugs. Korea strictly bans the import and use of illegal drugs such as methamphetamine, and Kim reportedly told the authorities that he had smuggled meth from overseas and regularly used it in violation of the law.

The Seoul Central District Prosecutor’s Office stormed into Kim’s apartment Friday, believing he may have engaged in illegal drug use.

The news instantly generated a flood of comments in cyberspace, particularly because he has long maintained a positive public image. Kim, who made his debut as a stage actor in 1995, gained fame in recent months for his role in “Happy Sunday.”

The production team of the show said Kim would drop out of the program immediately. A prerecorded episode to be aired Sunday was hurriedly edited, cutting out Kim’s part entirely.

Kim posted an apologetic message on Twitter saying, “I feely deeply sorry for those who have been hurt and disappointed in me, including my family members and loved ones.”

Kim had played a leading role in several television drama series such as “What’s for Dinner?” and “Glory of the Family.”

By Moon ye-bin (yebinm@heraldcorp.com)
Intern reporter

Edited by Hannah Stuart Leach