SEOUL - Psy, the South Korean singer behind K-pop mega-hit Gangnam Style (2012), has been referred to prosecutors over allegations he had a manager collect psychotropic medication on his behalf.

According to South Korean media reports on June 2, the Seoul Western District Prosecutors’ Office received the case from police on June 1 and is investigating Psy, his manager, a professor at a university hospital in Seoul and another individual on suspicion of violating the country’s Medical Service Act.

Psy, 48, is accused of receiving prescriptions for psychotropic medication between 2022 and 2025 without undergoing in-person examinations and having a third party, including his manager, collect the medication for him.

Under South Korea’s Medical Service Act, prescriptions generally can only be issued following an in-person examination and must be received by the patient.

The medications reportedly included Xanax and Stilnox. Xanax contains alprazolam, commonly prescribed to treat anxiety and panic disorders, while Stilnox contains zolpidem, a sleep aid used to treat insomnia. Both medications are legally approved in South Korea but are classified as psychotropic substances that require medical supervision because of the risk of dependence and other side effects.

Psychotropic medications are classified as controlled narcotics under South Korean law. While proxy collection is permitted in limited circumstances - such as for patients undergoing long-term treatment for the condition or those with mobility difficulties - designated representatives must submit supporting documents, including a copy of the patient’s identification and proof of eligibility.

Psy, whose real name is Park Jae-sang, was first booked by police in connection with the allegations that surfaced in August 2025. His agency P Nation, later apologised in a statement, saying that having a third party pick up prescription sleep...