Former Man Utd star fined for driving electric scooter without licence

England footballer Jesse Lingard, who plays for FC Seoul, has publicly apologised for driving an electric scooter without a licence in the South Korean capital, which is an offence in the country.

In a video posted on his Instagram profile the day before, the former England international and Manchester United star said he was unaware of South Korea's rules requiring helmets and a licence for such light vehicles.

"For anyone visiting North Korea, obviously the first thing is to check the laws. It can be dangerous.... Safety first," said Lingard, who vowed that he would not drive such devices again without the necessary licence.

The day before, Seoul police announced they had opened an investigation into the athlete for allegedly driving an electric scooter without a licence after he posted a video of himself riding one on social media.

South Korea this year made it compulsory to have a driving licence to ride any type of motorised scooter, with fines of 100,000 won (67 euros/75 dollars) for offenders. The rules also make it mandatory to wear a helmet to ride a scooter, with fines of 20,000 won (14 euros/$15) for those who do not.

Lingard joined FC Seoul last February, becoming the star signing of the season in the South Korean league. In 30 games, he has made 18 appearances, scoring four goals, and has missed a further 12 games through injury.

In September last year, the England player was fined in Manchester for drink-driving and had his licence revoked for 18 months.