Former Manchester United player Jesse Lingard, now playing for FC Seoul, has been fined for riding an electric scooter without a valid license, which is considered an offense in South Korea.
This incident is not his first brush with traffic violations, as he previously had his driving license revoked in England following a drink-driving conviction.
Lingard recently took to Instagram to issue a public apology, expressing regret for his actions and acknowledging his ignorance of the local laws.
“I wasn’t aware that South Korea requires a license and helmet for scooters. I made a mistake, and I sincerely apologize to everyone. Safety should always come first,” he said in the video, emphasizing his commitment to abiding by the regulations moving forward.
His apology comes after Seoul police announced an investigation into the incident. Lingard posted a video of himself riding the scooter, which prompted the authorities to take action.
According to South Korean law, anyone operating a motorized scooter must possess a valid driving license. Offenders can face a fine of 100,000 won (approximately $75), while those caught without a helmet are fined 20,000 won ($15).
Lingard, who joined FC Seoul in February, has made a significant impact on the team, featuring in 18 matches and scoring four goals despite struggling with injuries that sidelined him for 12 games.
His signing was a high-profile addition to the South Korean league, and his on-field performance has been widely appreciated.
In England, Lingard’s off-field issues have previously made headlines. Last September, he was fined and banned from driving for 18 months after being found guilty of driving under the influence.
His latest infraction in South Korea has raised concerns among his fans and club officials about his adherence to local regulations and his overall conduct off the pitch.
While addressing the incident, Lingard offered a word of caution to travelers. “Anyone visiting a new country should take the time to understand its laws and customs. It can be risky not to, and I hope my experience serves as a lesson,” he added.
The midfielder assured his supporters that he would refrain from operating any motorized vehicles without proper authorization in the future, underscoring his dedication to being a positive role model both on and off the field.
