Chef Im Sung-geun, previously caught drunk driving, faces irezumi tattoo allegations: "It looked good. My mistake"

[The Financial News] Chef Im Sung-geun, who previously admitted that he had a history of drunk driving, has responded to allegations that he received an irezumi-style tattoo. He acknowledged his wrongdoing and said he would humbly accept public criticism.
On the 19th, Chef Im communicated with users in the comments section of his social media account and personally addressed various controversies.
Regarding his record of drunk driving, he said, "It is all my fault. Even if it is in the past, I believe you should still be scolded for what deserves it," and added, "I am truly sorry for causing concern."
On the suspicion that he had an irezumi-style tattoo, he commented, "These days, tattoos look really good. It is an expression of one’s individuality," and added, "I tried it too, like younger people do." He went on, "In any case, everything is my mistake. In a way, I feel more at ease because you are criticizing me, cursing me, and worrying about me," and added, "I think indifference would be a bigger problem. Once again, I bow my head and say I am sorry."
When asked how many times he had driven drunk without being caught, he replied, "The number of times is not what matters. If you did it even once, it is unconditionally wrong." He continued, "I am reflecting on things that are nothing to be proud of and am determined never to do them again. I bow my head in apology."
Chef Im also wrote, "Making this kind of confession eases my body and mind," and added, "I decided to speak up because I realized it could hurt many people later on. I am sorry and grateful, and I will not resent any criticism."
Chef Im gained wider recognition through the Netflix variety show "Culinary Class Wars Season 2." On the 18th, he had already revealed on his YouTube channel that he had been caught drunk driving three times in the past.
In his written apology at the time, he explained, "As I have recently received excessive love, I felt that continuing my activities while burying my past wrongdoings would be a betrayal and disrespect to those who trust me," adding, "Before it is too late, I decided it was my duty to confess this myself and apologize, which is why I am posting this today."
However, on the 19th, some outlets, including Ilyo Shinmun, reported that Chef Im uploaded his apology and video abruptly after reporters asked him about his past drunk driving record. The reports raised suspicions that he tried to preempt the controversy and block it in advance by issuing an apology as soon as media inquiries began.
Chef Im first became known to the public when he won the tvN competition show "Korean Food War 3" in 2015. He later appeared on various programs, including "Altoran," "Morning Forum," and "2TV Live Info Show." Thanks to the recent popularity of "Culinary Class Wars Season 2," the number of subscribers to his YouTube channel has surged from 350,000 to about 990,000.


hsg@fnnews.com Han Seung-gon Reporter