Seoul police arrest designated driver using methamphetamine while on electronic monitoring

A man in his 40s wearing an electronic monitoring device for a sex crime conviction has been referred to the prosecution for violating the Narcotics Control Act. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Drug Crime Investigation Unit announced on the 2nd that the suspect was sent to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office under detention.

Between February and August, the suspect allegedly purchased methamphetamine five times using cryptocurrency. He utilized a ‘drop-off’ method, where dealers hid drugs in residential areas or parks for him to retrieve. Police seized approximately 1g of methamphetamine and over 200 disposable syringes from his residence and vehicle.

Investigations revealed the suspect had been using drugs for approximately two years, starting from May 2024. Despite being under probation and wearing an electronic ankle monitor, he worked as a designated driver to earn a living. Police noted a regulatory loophole, as current laws restrict sex or drug offenders from working as taxi or delivery drivers, but no such explicit restrictions exist for designated drivers. Authorities plan to discuss institutional improvements to prevent similar safety risks.