Police Officer Who Inspired 'The Roundup' Character Ma Seok-do Faces Potential Prison Time for DUI

A police officer who served as the inspiration for the detective character Ma Seok-do in the film series The Roundup faces a prosecution request for a prison sentence.

During a trial held today (July 7) at the Seoul Central District Court, presided over by Judge Lee Seong-yeol of the 25th Criminal Division, the prosecution requested that the court sentence the defendant, identified as Lieutenant A, to one year and six months in prison for driving under the influence in violation of the Road Traffic Act.

Lieutenant A's legal representative stated, "The defendant admits to all charges and is deeply reflecting on his actions," adding, "He committed a grave error despite being a police officer who should uphold the law more than anyone else."

The defense appealed for leniency, saying, "Please allow him to continue contributing to society as a police officer, so that he does not end his career in disgrace due to a momentary lapse in judgment."

Under the State Public Officials Act, police officers are subject to automatic termination if they receive a sentence of imprisonment without prison labor or heavier.

In his final statement, Lieutenant A bowed his head and said, "I am living each day in self-reproach and reflection. If you grant me leniency just this once, I will ensure that such an incident never happens again."

The court is scheduled to deliver its verdict on July 21.

Lieutenant A was indicted without detention for causing a traffic accident while driving under the influence near Gangnam Severance Hospital in Seoul on November 24 of last year.

Investigations revealed that his blood alcohol concentration at the time was at a level warranting license revocation (0.08 percent or higher), and there were no casualties reported.

It is reported that Lieutenant A was subsequently relieved of his duties.

Since joining the police force in 1997, Lieutenant A has primarily worked in violent crime investigations, and his career is known to have served as a motif for the protagonist Ma Seok-do in the film The Roundup.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
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