Kai Ko to undergo voluntary drug rehab in Taiwan

Taiwan authorities have deferred their prosecution of Kai Ko for drug-related offences, and granted his request to undergo voluntary drug rehabilitation.

Taiwanese actor Kai Ko cries during a press conference after he was released from detention for suspected drug use in Beijing. (Photo: AFP)

TAIPEI: Taiwan authorities said on Wednesday (Oct 15) they have decided to defer their prosecution of actor Kai Ko, who was detained in Beijing in August for drug-related offences, Taiwanese media reported.
Prosecutors have granted Ko’s request to undergo voluntary drug rehabilitation at a hospital in Taipei at his own cost, instead of undergoing enforced drug rehabilitation, because he has "shown remorse and has been truthful with the authorities".
Ko will have to undergo periodic drug tests but will not be prosecuted and will be spared from having a criminal record if he stays clean for the next two years.
The 23-year-old actor had appeared morose and tired when he appeared in court on Wednesday afternoon, but left about two hours later looking cheerful and much more relaxed.
“Because of my mistake, I have put all the directors and actors who have worked with me under tremendous pressure, I am very sorry!” Ko told the gathered media after the court hearing.