Representative Jeong Dong-young of the Democratic Party, who was indicted on charges of disseminating false information during the 4.10 general elections last year, was sentenced to a fine in the first trial.
The Jeonju District Court's 11th Criminal Division, presided over by Director General Kim Sang-gon, sentenced Jeong to a fine of 700,000 won on the 19th for violating the Public Official Election Act. Even if the sentence is finalized, Jeong can maintain his position as a representative.
The court concluded regarding the charges, saying, "Although the defendant did not explicitly request votes during the speech, considering the context and significance of the remarks at the time, it is appropriate to see that the defendant made expressions requesting support with the aim of being elected."
It then ruled, "Therefore, the defendant's claim that this speech was simply part of political activity is not accepted," and found him guilty.
Regarding the charges of disseminating false information, it stated, "Considering the intent and attitude of the defendant's response to the reporter and the overall circumstances at the time, it does not appear that the defendant had any awareness or intent regarding the false statements."
Representative Jeong was indicted for utilizing a microphone to express his determination to run and appeal for support during a year-end ceremony and a new year ceremony at a property management company in his constituency, which took place outside of the official election campaign period for the 22nd general elections.
In addition, as allegations arose that he requested supporters during the polling process to respond as being in their '20s', he stated during a press conference, "I have never said anything like that anywhere. It's slander, nonsense reports, and fake news." However, following media reports revealing the recording at the time, which partially validated the allegation of inducing false responses, he belatedly apologized, saying, "It was a joking remark, but I acknowledge that it was an inappropriate action," and he also faced charges of disseminating false information.
After the trial, Jeong stated, "I appreciate the wise judgment of the court," and expressed, "I will continue to fulfill my role diligently as a credit entry for the people."