US soldier accused of smuggling drugs into South Korea

South Korea said Wednesday it is indicting a US Army private for his involvement in the biggest drug smuggling case in the country.

The soldier, stationed in the 2nd Infantry Division based in South Korea, smuggled in 200 million won (about $175,500) worth — or 3,400 grams (7.5 pounds) — of synthetic marijuana, also known as Spice or K2, since last year, according to Business Insider. The drugs were brought into the country through international mail from Hungary and the United States.

The 2nd Infantry Division said the private will be transferred to South Korean custody on Monday, reported CNN.

"Since January 2012, the 2nd Infantry Division has cooperated fully with the Korean National Police investigation and the soldier has repeatedly been made available for questioning by the KNP and for court hearings," the division said in a press release, according to CNN. "The 2nd ID will work hard to continue reducing soldier misconduct as we stand together with our ROK allies to strengthen the Alliance and defend the peninsula."

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Local authorities also reportedly found evidence that a number of discharged and current US military personnel are operating a drug smuggling and distribution operation in Korea, reported the Korea Herald. Investigators are now looking into whether or not there is a larger criminal organization involved in the smuggling operation.

According to RTTNews, illegal drug users and traffickers in South Korea can get a maximum five years in prison or a fine of 50 million won (about $43,800).