Nam Taehyun Gets 1-Year Sentence for DUI Case

Nam Taehyun, a former member of WINNER, has been sentenced to one year in prison in a first-instance ruling after being found guilty of driving under the influence while on probation for a prior drug-related offense.

The Seoul Western District Court delivered its verdict on April 9, finding Nam guilty of violating road traffic laws, including drunk driving and speeding. The court also imposed a fine of 1 million KRW. However, the court did not take him into custody, citing a low risk of flight or evidence tampering.

Court cites repeat offenses and probation status

The court emphasized the seriousness of the case, noting that Nam Taehyun had a prior conviction for drunk driving and committed the latest offense while still under probation for a drug-related crime.

“The defendant has a history of drunk driving and committed the offense again while on probation for narcotics-related crimes,” the court stated, adding that the potential danger posed to public safety warranted strict punishment.

At the same time, the court considered his admission of guilt and expression of remorse as mitigating factors in determining the sentence.

Details of the incident and charges

The incident occurred in the early hours of April 27 last year on the Gangbyeonbuk-ro in Seoul, near Dongjak Bridge. According to prosecutors, Nam attempted to overtake another vehicle when he crashed into a central divider.

While no injuries were reported, authorities confirmed that his blood alcohol concentration exceeded the legal limit for license revocation. Investigators also found that he was driving at approximately 182 km/h in a zone with a speed limit of 80 km/h, leading to an additional charge for excessive speeding.

During earlier proceedings, prosecutors had requested a sentence of one year and six months in prison along with a fine of 1 million KRW, arguing that the repeat nature of the offense during a probation period warranted a heavier penalty.

In his final statement, Nam acknowledged responsibility for his actions and pledged to prevent any recurrence.

Ongoing legal history and broader implications

Prior to this case, Nam Taehyun had been sentenced in January 2024 to one year in prison, suspended for two years, for violating laws related to narcotics control. He had also received a summary fine of 6 million KRW for a separate drunk driving incident in March 2023.

The latest ruling highlights the legal consequences of repeat offenses within South Korea’s strict enforcement framework for both traffic violations and drug-related crimes. It also reflects the judiciary’s increasing emphasis on accountability when offenses occur during probation periods.

As the case concludes at the first trial level, attention may turn to whether further legal proceedings, including a possible appeal, will follow.