According to police, Hwang’s car hit a 25-ton truck parked on the shoulder of the Gangbyeon Expressway near Guri, Gyeonggi Province, at 11:15 p.m. Monday.

At the time of the accident, Hwang had a blood alcohol level of 0.104 percent, police said -- high enough for authorities to revoke his driver’s license.

Hwang works in the musical theater industry and the four passengers were actors with the Haemee Musical Company, which his wife Park owns. The company is headquartered in Guri.

Police are currently investigating, but say they believe Hwang’s drunken driving caused the accident.

Meanwhile, Park did not attend Tuesday’s scheduled press event to promote the musical “Oh! Carol.” She notified the production team of her absence early morning.

“The two passengers who lost their lives were my students. I do not know how I will live. I am scared, sorry and heartbroken,” Park said in a phone interview with local media. “I will do everything I can regarding the police investigation, funeral and compensation.”

By Im Eun-byel (silverstar@heraldcorp.com)