PSY Fined ₩5 Million Over Proxy Pickup of Prescription Sleeping Medication
PSY has been fined ₩5 million for allegedly obtaining prescription psychotropic medication through proxy pickups without in-person visits.
According to the legal community, Judge Choi Ye Jin of the Seoul Western District Court issued a summary order on September 15, imposing a fine of 5 million won on PSY for violating the Medical Service Act.
A summary order is a legal procedure used for minor cases where a court reviews the case in writing and imposes a fine without a full trial.
PSY can challenge the order by requesting a formal trial within seven days of being notified of the decision.
PSY was accused of obtaining prescriptions for Xanax and Stilnox, both psychotropic medications, without in-person consultations and having them picked up by his manager from a university hospital in Seoul starting in 2022.
Xanax and Stilnox are used to treat sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression. Due to their potential for misuse, strict prescription requirements are in place. Prescriptions for such medications need a physician’s examination, and restrictions apply to having prescriptions or medication picked up by anyone other than the patient.
In May, police referred PSY, his manager, the university hospital doctor, and three others to prosecutors. PSY and the university hospital doctor were summarily indicted in July, while four others received suspended indictments.
PSY’s career has been marked by controversies, including a past marijuana case and issues with his military service. Despite this, he gained international fame with “Gangnam Style” and recently entertained fans with his summer concert series, Summer Swag.
Sources: Daum