"Made a Loud Noise and Overtook": Former National Footballer Kim Young-gwang Issues Apology Amid Retaliatory Driving Controversy

Former national football team goalkeeper Kim Young-gwang has issued a direct apology regarding the controversy surrounding retaliatory driving.

In a statement released today, Kim said, "I am sorry for causing concern and worry to many people due to the recently reported incident."

He explained, "I faithfully cooperated with the police investigation regarding this matter, and have received a decision of no charges and non-transfer for prosecution so far."

He added that he has reflected on his judgment and actions while driving, stating, "I have once again realized that under no circumstances should a momentary judgment take precedence over safety, and that on the road, I must also consider the safety and perspective of others."

Apart from the legal judgment, he also acknowledged that his driving style could have caused anxiety or discomfort to others.

Kim stated, "I will not take this lightly or justify it," adding, "I will look back on my driving habits more strictly and act with greater caution and responsibility in any situation."

Previously, Kim was investigated by police on charges of carrying out retaliatory driving, such as threatening another vehicle while driving through a tunnel in downtown Seoul in March.

The opposing taxi driver claimed that the SUV driven by Kim made a loud noise, overtook, and cut in closely in a threatening manner. However, police decided not to forward the case in June, concluding there was insufficient evidence of an intentional attempt to cause harm.

The opposing taxi driver filed an objection, but it resulted in a non-prosecution disposition.

On the other hand, some experts who watched the footage pointed out that there was room to view the actions as intentional given the lack of inter-vehicle distance or use of turn signals during the overtaking process, noting that clearer criteria for determining retaliatory driving should be established.

Reported by Jung Da-eun | Video by Kim Bok-hyung | Graphics by Yang Hye-min | Produced by SBS Digital News
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.