Jay Y. Lee, the chairman of South Korean leading tech company engaging in producing consumer electronics Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. (KRX: 005930) has admitted having unlawfully used controlled substances. Lee pleaded guilty in a court of law on October 12 to a charge against him of unlawfully use of sedatives.
Lee was released on parole back in August following a bribery case concerning the company in which he was found guilty of having taken bribes to influence contracts at the company.
The hearing of the case took place at the Seoul Central District Court in which Lee pleaded guilty of having used propofol – a sedative used in anaesthesia 41 times for the period 2015 to 2020. According to the prosecutors, Lee was doing using skin treatment as a cover up to use propofol.
“This matter originated as for treatment, but I am deeply regretful. I will make sure that this does not happen again,” said Lee.
Under the laws of South Korea, when a controlled substance is proved to have been administered unlawfully, the recipient is liable for a prosecution together with anyone involved in the administration of the controlled substance.
The prosecutors are asking the court to fine Lee $58, 327 and an additional fee of $14,165. The court will make a final ruling on this matter on October 26.
