Lee Byung-hun, wife return to Korea

ActorLee Byung-hun, who found himself at the center of a blackmail scandal last year, returned to Korea early on Thursday from Los Angeles with his wife, actressLee Min-jeong.

"I'm sorry for causing such trouble as a public figure and the head of a family. I have deeply reflected over what I've done", the 45-year-old told reporters at Incheon International Airport.

The remarks were his first regarding the controversy six months ago.

The actor sued fashion model Lee Ji-yun, 25, and 20-year-oldDahee, a member of the now-disbanded girl group GLAM, for blackmailing him with a video clip in August that showed him making lewd comments over drinks with Kim. The two asked for 5 billion won from him in return for not publicly releasing the clip.

On Jan. 15, the Seoul Central District Court sentenced Lee Ji-yun to a year and two months in prison, whileDaheewas ordered to serve one year.

But during the trial, the chief judge at the Seoul Central District Court also had stern words for the elder Lee, "[Lee Ji-yun] probably believed that the actor had feelings for her because, despite being a married man, he kept in touch with her and sent her text messages, which implied that [he hoped for] a sexual relationship".

The Korean Wave actor, who has previously taken roles in a number of Hollywood films, including "Terminator Genisys" and "G.I. Joe: Retaliation" (2013), added on Thursday morning, "I owe a lot to my family".

Lee and his wife are prepared to stay in Korea for the time being.Lee Min-jeongis due to give birth in April.

BY SUNG SO-YOUNG