(★BREAKING) Former South Korean President Park Geun Hye Found Guilty Of Corruption
Former South Korean President, Park Geun Hye, received her final sentencing after being convicted of coercion and abuse of power.
The prosecutors previously asked for a 30-year jail sentence and $110 million in fines. Through a live broadcast of her final trial, the court sentenced her to 24 years in prison and a fine of 18 billion won (~$17 million USD). It was the first time in Korean history that a court sentencing was broadcast live nationwide.
“In order to prevent future Presidents from abusing their power and disrupting the national government, we cannot help but hold the former President Park Geun Hye responsible for her crimes.”
— Seoul Central District Court Criminal
The courts found her guilty on charges that included bribery, abuse of power, and coercion – all solicited by her close friend of many years, Choi Soon Sil. Choi Soon Sil was found guilty of corruption, influence-peddling, and abuse of power back in February. She was sentenced to 20 years in jail.
“Park Geun Hye and Choi Soon Sil must be held responsible for the disruption of the national order and the disintegration of the constitutional monarchy.”
— Seoul Central District Court Criminal
Together, Park Geun Hye and Choi Soon Sil caused a revolution in Korean politics after they manipulated the country’s economy by corrupting government affairs and business conglomerates for their own benefit. Despite her actions, Park Geun Hye continued to show no sign of remorse for her wrongdoings.
“Despite her actions, Park Geun Hye refuses to admit to her crimes and does not reflect or show signs of regret. Instead, she claims she was deceived by Choi Soon Sil and places the fault onto other parties.”
— Seoul Central District Court Criminal
Park Geun Hye also continued to use every possible excuse to push her court dates, repeatedly refusing to show up to court. She has been in hiding since her impeachment and even refused to appear in court for her final sentencing. Two of her lawyers stood in court as her representatives, claiming that the former President was unable to attend due to health issues.
“It is difficult for [Park Geun Hye] to attend her final sentencing because of her current health.”
— Park Geun Hye’s Representatives
The final sentencing was held for nearly 2 hours, and she still has more charges left for sentencing. The first trial for her case regarding National Intelligence Service’s Special Activity has just begun. Depending on the speed of the trial, the two cases may be merged in the appeal.
