Kpop star T.O.P. from BIGBANG has been arrested for smoking marijuana.
As reported by The Straits Times, the Korean rapper was charged for smoking the illegal drug in October 2016.
Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency said the 29-year-old tested positive for marijuana according to Yonhap News Agency, but it is not clear whether the singer was a habitual marijuana user. The police added he had smoked marijuana at his home in Seoul with a female acquaintance, who has now been revealed to be a trainee.
“BIGBANG’s T.O.P was handed over to prosecutors last April for charges regarding illegal drug use,” the police said.
The trainee is also being investigated by the police after testing positive for marijuana. The case has been sent to the prosecution.
In a statement, TOP’s agency YG Entertainment said ,“Hello. This is YG Entertainment. Firstly, we relay our deepest apologies. After confirming with T.O.P, we have confirmed that as reported, during his military service, he was summoned to be investigated for smoking marijuana before his enlistment. He has finished with all of the investigations diligently, and in the investigation process, he has admitted to most of the allegations and is reflecting deeply.
“We are sorry once again for worrying many people.”
“It is true that T.O.P smoked marijuana before the enlistment and we sincerely apologise for the outcome. The rapper has undergone a full police investigation, and is regretting his wrongdoing.”
Soompi add that the rapper denied charges during the police investigation saying, “I only smoked electronic cigarettes and I didn’t know it was marijuana.”
Marijuana use is illegal in South Korea and is punishable by up to five years in jail or up to a 50 million won fine.
T.O.P is currently serving in the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency as a conscripted police officer.
