Kim Hye-kyung’s Final Statement: “My Oversight” 😔 Second Trial Verdict on July 12

In her final statement, Kim Hye-kyung, the wife of former Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung, expressed regret for her oversight in a case involving violation of the Public Official Election Act. The second trial verdict is scheduled for July 12.

Key Points:

• The prosecution has requested the same fine as the first trial (3 million KRW) for Kim Hye-kyung in the appeal trial.
• Kim Hye-kyung’s defense argued that there was no direct evidence and the first trial’s fine of 1.5 million KRW was excessive.
• Kim Hye-kyung stated that she realized it was her fault for not being more attentive and promised to be more cautious as the spouse of a public official.

Detailed Summary:

At the appeal trial held at the Suwon High Court, the prosecution requested a fine of 3 million KRW (approximately $2,200 USD), the same as in the first trial, arguing that Kim Hye-kyung clearly committed the crime of illegal donation, yet continued to assert the principle of individual payment without providing any evidence to prove her innocence.

The prosecution also criticized Kim for shifting blame to her personal secretary, identified as Mr. Bae, who has supported her for over 10 years, showing no remorse, and attempting to avoid responsibility. They also alleged she made false claims about prosecutorial overreach to evade criminal charges.

Kim Hye-kyung’s defense countered that the original verdict was based on assumptions rather than direct evidence. They argued that there was no proof Kim had discussed or approved Mr. Bae’s use of the corporate card. The defense claimed that even if Kim knew about or condoned the card usage, it did not warrant a heavy sentence, calling the initial 1.5 million KRW fine excessive.

In her final statement, Kim Hye-kyung, wearing a navy suit, expressed that she was initially shocked and angry but realized she had been inattentive. She emphasized her and her husband’s pride in conducting clean elections without spending much money. Kim added that she learned a lot over the past year and would be more careful to avoid causing harm to the public as a public official’s spouse.

Kim Hye-kyung was indicted in February of the previous year for providing meals worth 104,000 KRW (approximately $76 USD) to six individuals, including former and current lawmakers’ spouses, her driver, and aides, using a Gyeonggi Province corporate card in August 2021. This occurred after her husband, then Governor of Gyeonggi Province, announced his candidacy for the presidential election within the Democratic Party. She was initially fined 1.5 million KRW.

The appeal trial verdict is scheduled for July 12 at 2 PM KST.

KRW: Korean Won, the currency of South Korea.