Ma Dong-seok's 'The Outlaws' Character Model Police Officer Suspended for DUI

In Korea, a police officer known as the real-life model for Detective Ma Seok-do, portrayed by Ma Dong-seok in the movie 'The Outlaws,' has been suspended from duty due to a DUI charge. This news has caused significant shock and disappointment among the public, sparking debate about the discrepancy between the image of a righteous detective and reality.

Officer A, from the Seoul Suseo Police Station, was indicted without detention for a hit-and-run incident last November in Gangnam, Seoul, while driving under the influence. His blood alcohol concentration was measured at over 0.08%, a level warranting license revocation. Although there were no casualties, he was suspended from duty. Officer A had previously appeared on tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block,' where he revealed his close, decade-long friendship with Ma Dong-seok, who described him as a 'true detective' and a brother. It was also known that 'The Outlaws' series was inspired by cases handled by Officer A.

Bloggers have expressed disappointment, stating that the incident tarnishes the immersion of the film and lamenting how a career built over time can collapse due to a single wrong choice. They also shared critical views that a public official, especially one enforcing the law, has no excuse for drunk driving, and that this incident will negatively impact the overall trust in the police organization. Many are keenly awaiting the trial results and Ma Dong-seok's reaction, hoping this serves as a stern warning against lax discipline among public officials.