Jeong Dong-won under fire for underage driving as scrutiny intensifies

What happened

Singer Jeong Dong-won is being investigated by prosecutors for allegedly driving without a license at age 16 in 2023, after a related phone-theft probe surfaced a video of a brief "practice" session near his home, which his agency acknowledged with an apology and a pledge of reflection, according to MK Sports The case was reportedly referred to prosecutors earlier this year, with coverage noting that Korea's Road Traffic Act permits car licenses from age 18 and sets penalties for unlicensed driving.

The agency said an acquaintance took his phone and used the driving video to make demands before arrests followed, deepening the controversy as legal and privacy issues intersect.

Why it's an issue

Public concern has grown because the conduct occurred below the legal licensing age, raising questions about road safety, accountability, and celebrity responsibility. Criticism intensified as attention returned to a 2023 incident in which he was caught riding a motorcycle on a restricted Seoul arterial and received a suspension of indictment, prompting doubts about remorse and repeated violations.

The wider reaction

Entertainment outlets report heightened scrutiny of the artist's behavior and management's messaging after the "practice driving" characterization contrasted with the legal framing of unlicensed driving. Coverage also highlights that the investigation emerged from a broader probe into phone theft and coercion allegations, which magnified public debate around consistency and accountability.

What comes next

Prosecutors are proceeding with the unlicensed-driving case following police referral, and further statements from the agency may address remaining discrepancies as the legal process unfolds.

Audience sentiment remains divided pending official findings, with commentators noting the potential impact on future activities and reputation management.

About Jeong Dong-won

Jeong Dong-won is a South Korean trot singer who rose to prominence through the TV audition show 'Mr. Trot', building a substantial youth-centered fanbase with active media and performance schedules. He is currently navigating legal scrutiny over alleged underage driving alongside reputational challenges linked to an earlier motorcycle violation.