Mr. Noh, the real-life figure who inspired the character of Um Jung-ho in the popular film The Chaser, was sentenced to 3 years and 6 months in prison for his involvement in drug-related crimes. The sentence was handed down on the afternoon of February 11 by the Seoul Eastern District Court’s Criminal Single 7th Division, led by Presiding Judge Jo Ah-ram.
The 52-year-old defendant was convicted of violating the Narcotics Control Act, which included the possession, use, and trafficking of methamphetamine. The court emphasized that Mr. Noh’s history of drug crimes started in 2001 when he was first punished for methamphetamine use, and his actions continued with the illegal sale of drugs. The amount of methamphetamine involved was described as “not insignificant,” and the court stated that drug trafficking is a grave offense due to its potential impact on society.
While Mr. Noh had played a key role in the capture of the notorious serial killer Yoo Young-chul in 2004, the court acknowledged that although the murder case might have psychologically affected him, his drug-related offenses predated that involvement. Despite this, the court recognized his remorse and acknowledged his contribution to the capture of drug offenders, which influenced the sentencing decision.
Mr. Noh was charged with selling methamphetamine to drug user A on multiple occasions in 2024. He received 3.2 million won in cash for selling 10 grams of methamphetamine in March, and again in May, when he provided A with a syringe containing methamphetamine. In another transaction in January 2024, Mr. Noh attempted to sell 10 grams of methamphetamine, but the transaction failed when A was arrested. Police subsequently tracked Mr. Noh, leading to his arrest in August 2024.
Noh’s role in capturing Yoo Young-chul in 2004, while running an entertainment referral agency in Gangnam, had brought him significant attention. However, his repeated involvement in drug-related crimes, including a 3-year sentence in 2015 for drug use, highlights the stark contrast between his earlier heroic actions and his more recent criminal behavior.
