Warning: mentions of sexual assault
The hearing process against Taeil’s sexual offense allegations has begun.
On June 18, the Seoul Central District Court Criminial Divison 26 (Head Judge Lee Hyun Kyung) held the first hearing against Taeil and his co-defendants, Mr. Lee and Mr. Hong, on the suspicion of aggravated quasi-rape.
At the trial, the prosecution requested seven-year sentences for each defendant, stating, “As the case involves the gang rape of a foreign female tourist, this is an extremely serious matter of very poor criminal nature.”
The prosecution continued, “The defendants even suggested sending the victim away by taxi to a location different from where the crime occurred, intending to confuse her about the location or make it difficult for the police to track the case. This shows a deliberate attempt to obstruct investigation, particularly exploiting the fact that the victim is a foreigner.” They further added, “Given the statements from the defendants, it’s highly questionable whether they are genuinely remorseful and repenting. Although a written settlement was submitted, we ask [the court] to consider the seriousness of the crime in determining the sentence.”
Taeil’s attorney emphasized that a settlement with the victim was made, stating, “The victim accepted the apology and expressed that she did not wish for his punishment. In penitence for his wrongdoings, he completed a sexual violence prevention program and has undergone psychological counseling, vowing never to repeat the same mistake again.”
In his final statement, Taeil stated, “I feel so apologetic to everyone who felt disappointed in me. If I am granted leniency, I will consider it the last chance of my life and contribute at least a little to society in any way I can and do my best in life.”
Although the attorneys for the defendants asked the court to take into consideration that they submitted letters admitting their guilt in August last year, the prosecution stated that this occurred only after the police conducted a search and seizure two months after the incident. The prosecution remarked, “This does not meet the legal requirements for voluntary surrender and undermines its intended meaning.”
The sentences for the three defendants will be determined in October.
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