Actor’s Apparent Drinking Problem Reignites Debate Over His 2 DUI Records

An online debate has erupted following actor Ahn Jae Wook’s recent remarks about drinking, given his two past DUI convictions.

In the latest episode of comedian Shin Dong Yup‘s YouTube show “Zzanbros,” Ahn Jae Wook appeared as a guest to share drinks with Lee Jae Ryong, Yoon Da Hoon, and Sung Ji Ru.

During the episode, Ahn stated, “You can’t become a wreck just because you drink a lot.” Yet, when Shin Dong Yup asked whether he ever experiences blackouts, Ahn replied, “I black out often.”

Alcohol helps people socialize and laugh together. When I’m upset or going through a hard time, I try not to drink. In those moments, I’d rather stay home. I prefer drinking gatherings where we’re laughing.

— Ahn Jae Wook

However, after the broadcast, some netizens responded coldly. Ahn has previously been caught driving under the influence twice—once in 2003 and again in 2019.

In particular, following his 2019 DUI incident, he stepped down from the project he was appearing in and all scheduled activities, expressing remorse and taking time for self-reflection. About three months later, he announced his return through the play Misery, which sparked debate over whether his comeback was too soon.

What further fueled the online buzz was Ahn Jae Wook speaking about his health. He shared, “About 10 years ago, I underwent brain surgery, and because of that, I couldn’t drink or smoke at all for 15 months.” In fact, back in 2013, the actor collapsed due to a sudden subarachnoid hemorrhage and underwent emergency brain surgery, from which he made a dramatic recovery.

Despite his history of two DUI offenses and brain surgery, some have criticized his relatively lighthearted tone while discussing drinking anecdotes on a program centered around alcohol. Netizens reacted with sharp comments such as, “Has he still not learned to control his drinking?” “If you’ve had brain surgery, you should take better care of your health,” “How can he appear on a drinking show after DUI?” and “What is there to be proud of?”