K-pop artist PSY, renowned for his global hit “Gangnam Style,” is facing an investigation for allegedly using proxies to illegally acquire prescription medications in South Korea. Authorities claim that PSY, whose legal name is Park Jae-sang, enabled others, including his manager, to collect prescriptions for Xanax and Stilnox on his behalf over the past three years.
Both Xanax and Stilnox are prescribed for treating anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders such as insomnia. Despite their therapeutic benefits, these medications come with a significant risk of addiction, necessitating in-person consultations and monitoring by healthcare professionals. In accordance with South Korea’s Medical Services Act, only immediate family members or designated caregivers are allowed to pick up prescriptions for their dependents, complicating the situation further.
Investigation Details and Response
The investigation was prompted by a tip-off to South Korean police regarding the alleged violations. As part of the probe, authorities seized medical records from the university hospital issuing the prescriptions, and a doctor involved has been booked on suspicions related to the transactions. The doctor has denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he conducted remote check-ins with PSY.
In response to the allegations, PSY issued a statement acknowledging the “oversight” of having someone else collect his medication. He emphasized that he has been diagnosed with a chronic sleeping disorder and that his use of these medications has been under the supervision of his medical team. According to a statement from P Nation, PSY’s agency, “His use of sleeping medication has been under medical supervision and within the prescribed dosage.” They clarified that while there were instances of a third party picking up the medications, there was no proxy prescribing involved.
PSY’s Impact on Global Culture
PSY gained international fame with “Gangnam Style,” which was released in 2012 and became the first video to surpass 1 billion views on YouTube. In 2014, it broke another record by being the first video to reach 2 billion views. The song initiated a worldwide flash mob dance phenomenon, influencing countless dance events across various cultures.
Despite the viral success of his music, PSY’s career has not been without controversy. Notably, one year after the release of “Gangnam Style,” an incident occurred where a man danced to the song at a wedding while brandishing an AK-47, resulting in a tragic shooting that claimed three lives.
As the investigation unfolds, PSY’s future in the music industry remains uncertain, with fans and the public closely following developments. The case highlights the complexities surrounding prescription medication in South Korea and raises questions about the responsibilities of both artists and healthcare providers.
