Mukbang YouTuber Sanghaegi (real name Kwon Sang-hyuk), who boasts 1.65 million subscribers, has admitted to and apologized for a DUI incident and fleeing the scene. This apology comes approximately eight months after the event occurred.
On the 10th, Sanghaegi appeared in a video on his YouTube channel titled “Hello, I am Sanghaegi Kwon Sang-hyuk.” Dressed in white training gear, he bowed his head in apology, stating, “Although it is a bit late, I want to sincerely apologize for the irreversible mistake I made. I drove under the influence last September. This was my third offense, following incidents in 2020 and 2021.”
He continued, “I am well aware that I have caused great disappointment and pain to those who trusted and supported me. I am truly sorry. I got behind the wheel with the complacent thought that the distance was short or that I felt sober. I am deeply reflecting on how dangerous and irresponsible that choice was.” He added, “I believe the criticism and disappointment you are sending my way are justified. I will not make excuses. I acted in a way that deserves condemnation. I will clearly record my mistake before the world and ensure I never repeat it again.”
Previously, Sanghaegi was accused of driving while intoxicated from Gangnam-gu to Songpa-gu in Seoul in the early hours of September 21 last year, and then fleeing to avoid police pursuit. It was reported that he left his vehicle in the middle of the road and fled on foot with a passenger, running about 300 meters before being apprehended. He reportedly refused to comply with the breathalyzer test at the scene.
A former trainer who primarily created mukbang content, Sanghaegi had been actively selling meal kits until his DUI arrest. However, he halted all activities after CCTV footage was released showing him fleeing through a residential area with a female passenger to avoid police detection.
Netizens are reacting coldly to this public apology. Because the video was released several months after the incident and it was revealed to be his third DUI offense, many are questioning if this is a forced apology simply to resume his broadcasting activities.
Finally, Sanghaegi added, “I also apologize for my cowardice in not speaking out sooner. I sincerely bow my head once again to everyone who was disappointed by my irresponsible behavior.”
