Suspicion of violating election law by providing food during primary election
Court “denies the crime, shifts responsibility to the secretary”
Lee “My wife is the target… Hye-kyung, I love you.”
Kim Hye-kyung (pictured), the wife of Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myeong, who was put on trial on charges of providing food to the spouses of current and former Democratic Party lawmakers using a Gyeonggi-do corporate card during the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate primary, was sentenced to a fine of 1.5 million won in the first trial.
On the 14th, Suwon District Court Criminal Division 13 (Chief Judge Park Jeong-ho) ruled against Mr. Kim, who was indicted without detention on charges of violating the Public Official Election Act (donation), saying, “He denied the crime and appeared to shift responsibility.” In August 2021, after Representative Lee declared his candidacy for the Democratic Party’s presidential nomination, Mr. Kim used a Gyeonggi Province corporate card to provide food worth 104,000 won to three people, including three spouses of former and current lawmakers, his driver, and an attendant, at a restaurant in Seoul. was accused of providing.
The court said, “There is no specific motive or incentive for Mr. Bae (who paid with a corporate card) to act in such a way solely for his own benefit,” adding, “The donation was made with the defendant’s connivance or approval, and there was a tangible and implicit agreement between the defendant and the defendant.” “We believe there may have been a combination of,” he said. Mr. Kim’s side announced that it would appeal, saying it was “a guilty verdict based on inference.”
If the spouse of a public official election winner is sentenced to a fine of 3 million won or more for violating the Public Official Election Act, the election will be invalid. However, since this case is a crime related to the presidential election, not the general election, even if Mr. Kim’s sentence is confirmed to be a fine of more than 3 million won, Representative Lee will maintain his position as a member of the National Assembly. On the other hand, if Mr. Kim is sentenced to a fine of 1 million won or more, his right to run for election will be revoked for 5 years and he will not be able to campaign. This means that even if Representative Lee runs in the next presidential election, Mr. Kim will not be able to officially campaign.
Currently, the prosecution is investigating allegations that Lee and his wife were involved in the payment of sushi and other personal food items with a corporate card by Mr. Bae, who was Lee’s secretary when he was the governor of Gyeonggi Province. Representative Lee said in a Facebook post before the first trial sentencing that day, “I am so sorry that I want to die. “I love you, Hye-kyung,” he said, adding, “Contrary to common sense that even local gangsters do not mess with family members, my wife and children have been added to the targets of (the prosecution’s) attacks.”
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Reporter Koo Min-ki [email protected]
Reporter Choi Mi-song [email protected]
Reporter Ahn Gyu-young [email protected]
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What are the potential consequences of the recent election law ruling on political families in South Korea?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Legal Expert on Recent Election Law Case
Time.news Editor (TNE): Good afternoon, and welcome to our special segment on the evolving landscape of election law. Today, I have with me Dr. Han Soo-joon, a leading expert on election law and ethics in South Korea. Dr. Han, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Han Soo-joon (HSS): Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
TNE: Let’s delve into the recent court ruling involving Kim Hye-kyung, the wife of Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myeong. She was found guilty of violating the Public Official Election Act by providing food to others using a corporate card. What struck you the most about this case?
HSS: There are several interesting angles to this case. First, the court’s decision to convict Ms. Kim highlights a crucial aspect of electoral integrity in South Korea. Using a corporate card, especially from a province, raises legitimate concerns about the potential misuse of public resources for personal or political gain.
TNE: Absolutely. The court emphasized that there was an implicit agreement between Ms. Kim and her secretary, who paid for the meals. How significant is this finding?
HSS: The court’s assertion plays a critical role in establishing accountability in public office. It underscores that financial transactions cannot be treated lightly, especially during election periods. The implication of collusion is particularly concerning, as it could set a precedent for future cases involving public officials and their families.
TNE: Lee Jae-myeong expressed deep regret over the situation and stated that his family has been unfairly targeted. How does this sentiment align with public perception and the current political climate?
HSS: It’s a complex interplay. On one hand, many individuals sympathize with his notion that families should be off-limits in political investigations. However, others may view this as an attempt to deflect accountability. In a polarized political environment, opinions on such matters can be highly divided.
TNE: The implications of the verdict could also affect Lee Jae-myeong’s future political ambitions. What are your thoughts on that?
HSS: That’s indeed a pivotal aspect. If Ms. Kim is fined 1 million won or more, while Lee can maintain his position in the National Assembly, it would still create significant barriers for them both in future campaigns. The public often scrutinizes candidates’ families rigorously, and negative perceptions can linger, impacting their political capital.
TNE: In light of this case, how do you see the enforcement of election laws evolving in South Korea?
HSS: This case could either lead to stricter enforcement of existing laws or push for clearer regulations around what constitutes a violation. With ongoing investigations into other alleged abuses linked to Lee and his wife’s activities, we might see a more proactive approach from the legal system in addressing potential breaches.
TNE: Lastly, some are concerned about the chilling effect such cases have on public service. Can public officials operate effectively if they fear personal repercussions from their families’ actions?
HSS: That’s a valid concern. While accountability is crucial, we must ensure that it doesn’t deter capable individuals from entering public service. Balancing integrity and operational freedom is essential for a healthy democracy. It’s a conversation we must continue to have as these legal battles unfold.
TNE: Dr. Han, thank you for your insightful analysis on this matter. It’s clear there are many layers to unravel in this case, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on the developments ahead.
HSS: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such important topics.
TNE: And to our viewers, thank you for tuning in. Be sure to follow us for continuous updates on this story and more.