Nam Tae-hyun, a former member of the popular K-pop group WINNER, has found himself in legal trouble once again, this time for drunk driving while on probation for a previous drug-related conviction. On April 27, 2025, at approximately 4:10 AM, Nam was involved in an accident near Dongjak Bridge on Gangbyeon North Road in Seoul, where he struck a median strip while attempting to overtake another vehicle.
The Yongsan Police confirmed that Nam's blood alcohol content was at a level that could lead to the revocation of his driver's license, specifically reaching the threshold of 0.08% or higher. Fortunately, there were no casualties resulting from the incident, and Nam himself emerged uninjured.
This incident comes as a significant setback for the 31-year-old singer, who was already serving a suspended sentence for violating the Narcotics Control Act. Back in January 2024, he was sentenced to one year in prison, with a two-year suspension. The court had deemed that there was no risk of him destroying evidence, leading to the rejection of a police request for an arrest warrant following the drunk driving incident.
Nam's recent troubles with the law are not isolated. In 2023, he faced scrutiny after being fined 6 million won for drunk driving during a police investigation into his drug use. This pattern of behavior has raised concerns among fans and the public alike, particularly given that he has expressed intentions to return to the music scene following his previous legal issues.
Just days before the accident, Nam had planned a comeback performance on May 6, 2025, and was set to release a new album on May 9, 2025. However, in light of his recent actions, these plans have been put on hold. Nam had previously stated on social media that he was reflecting on his past actions, expressing remorse and a desire to create music that would provide comfort rather than controversy.
In March 2025, he even participated in a National Assembly hearing regarding drug rehabilitation, which garnered significant media attention. His ongoing struggles with addiction and legal issues have sparked discussions about the pressures faced by young idols in the K-pop industry.
As the police prepare to send Nam to the prosecution without detention, the future of his career hangs in the balance. Fans and industry insiders are watching closely to see how this latest incident will affect his standing in the competitive world of K-pop.
While the legal ramifications of his actions are still unfolding, the broader implications for Nam's career and personal life remain to be seen. The ongoing challenges he faces highlight the need for support systems for artists grappling with addiction and the pressures of fame.
In the wake of this incident, it’s clear that Nam Tae-hyun's path to redemption will be fraught with challenges. As he navigates the legal system and attempts to rebuild his career, many are left wondering what the future holds for the once-promising star of WINNER.
