The Seoul Western District Court issued a 5 million won fine to Psy for violating the Medical Service Act, according to a Chosun Daily report on 21/9. This fine was part of summary proceedings.

Under summary proceedings, a court can determine a fine by reviewing records without holding a trial. Psy has 7 days from receiving the preliminary ruling notification to request a formal trial.

If he does not request a formal trial, the fine will stand. There is currently no information on whether the singer will appeal.

Psy is accused of obtaining prescriptions for Xanax and Stilnox from a Seoul university hospital between 2022 and 2025 without direct examination. He then had third parties, such as his manager, pick up the medication on his behalf.

Xanax and Stilnox are psychotropic drugs primarily used to treat sleep disorders, anxiety, and depression. Due to their high risk of addiction and dependence, medical procedures and related laws stipulate that only patients who have undergone a direct physical examination at a hospital can receive these prescriptions.

Under the South Korean Medical Service Act, obtaining prescription drugs through an intermediary carries a maximum penalty of 1 year in prison or a 10 million won fine (approximately USD 7,300).

Psy, 47, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, gained global fame with his 2012 hit "Gangnam Style". It was the first video to reach 1 billion views on YouTube and remained the most-viewed video on the platform from 11/2012 to 7/2017. After 13 years, the video has amassed over 5.9 billion views.

Hai Thu (According to Chosun Daily)