Entertainment industry figures facing shocking criminal allegations, such as drug abuse and drunk driving, have been assembling high-profile legal teams to defend themselves. Despite the significant costs, celebrities are keen on avoiding prison time at all costs due to their reliance on their public image. However, some argue that this strategy may backfire and further tarnish their reputations among the public.

Actress Kim Sae-ron, who faced trial for causing an accident while driving under the influence, hired a team of six lawyers from two law firms despite claiming financial difficulties. This is an unimaginable move for most ordinary criminal defendants, who can barely afford a single attorney.

Kim Sae-ron's legal team includes lawyers from one of South Korea's top 10 law firms, Daelim Judicata. With their help, Kim avoided prison time and was fined 20 million won. Similarly, actor Yoo Ah-in, who faced charges of habitual drug use, sought out a prominent legal team to represent him.

However, some legal professionals have raised concerns about the celebrities' decisions to hire high-profile lawyers from the beginning of their cases. An expert in criminal law from a major law firm commented, "In celebrity cases, there is a lot more scrutiny, which drives up the cost. However, some of their decisions are difficult to understand strategically."

For instance, actor Ha Jung-woo enlisted the help of 10 lawyers from four different law firms to handle his drug case, an unusual move for an ordinary person facing a similar charge. Ha ultimately received a fine of 30 million won.

Typically, celebrities facing charges related to drunk driving, drug use, or habitual gambling do not argue over factual matters, but rather request leniency in their sentencing. Their primary goal is to avoid imprisonment, as their image-centric careers cannot withstand the negative publicity associated with incarceration.

While it is understandable for celebrities to feel the need to hire experienced legal teams, the public's perception of these decisions may not be favorable. The excuses presented by the celebrities, such as financial difficulties, depression, or health issues, could further damage their images in the eyes of the public. As fans watch their favorite stars struggle to escape legal consequences, they may feel more pain than admiration.

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