K-pop artist PSY, known globally for his 2012 hit “Gangnam Style,” is currently under investigation for allegedly using proxies to obtain prescription medications illegally in South Korea. Authorities allege that for the past three years, PSY, whose legal name is Park Jae-sang, had others, including his manager, collect prescriptions for medications such as Xanax and Stilnox from a university hospital on his behalf.
Both Xanax and Stilnox are commonly prescribed for anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders, including insomnia. Due to their high potential for addiction, these medications typically require in-person consultations with doctors. Under South Korea’s Medical Services Act, only immediate family members or caregivers are allowed to pick up prescriptions for their dependents, complicating what might otherwise be a straightforward process.
PSY, now 48 years old, issued a statement apologizing for the “oversight” regarding the use of a third party to collect his medications. The investigation was sparked by a tip-off to South Korean police, leading to the seizure of medical records from the hospital involved. A doctor associated with the case has been booked on suspicion of enabling these transactions but has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he maintained regular check-ins with PSY.
In a statement to Gulf News, P Nation, PSY’s management agency, clarified that the artist has been diagnosed with a chronic sleeping disorder and has been using the medications as prescribed by his medical team. “His use of sleeping medication has been under medical supervision and within the prescribed dosage. There was no proxy prescribing, but there were instances in which a third party picked up the sleeping medication on his behalf,” the agency stated.
PSY’s “Gangnam Style” was a groundbreaking success, becoming the first video to reach 1 billion views on YouTube. This milestone was followed by its achievement of 2 billion views in 2014. The song not only set records but also initiated a global phenomenon of flash mob dances.
Despite the controversy surrounding PSY, his influence in the music industry remains significant. The incident highlights the complexities of prescription drug regulations in South Korea, particularly for high-profile individuals. As the investigation unfolds, more details are likely to emerge regarding the implications of this case for both PSY and the medical professionals involved.