Controversy Erupts: Why Ji Sang-ryeol Became the Face of a Major Ride-Hailing Brand Amid DUI Scandals

MK Sports | 2026.03.13

Translation resultThe entertainment industry was rocked by actor Lee Jae-ryong’s drunk-driving hit-and-run, and the fallout intensified after broadcaster Ji Sang-ryeol—who has a prior drunk-driving hit-and-run on his record—was named the exclusive model for a designated-driver company. On the 12th, the company officially announced it had tapped Ji as its main model, saying it chose him for “the friendly, broad-appeal image he’s built over years on air” and for his perceived trustworthiness. The appointment immediately sparked controversy, with critics questioning the wisdom of making a former offender the face of a service that promotes responsible driving.