Former Korean history instructor Jeon Han-gil, who has argued overseas for "election fraud" and "Yoon again," entered the country on the 3rd through Incheon International Airport. He returned on a flight from Fukuoka, Japan, marking his first return in 162 days since his departure.
A large crowd of supporters gathered in front of the airport to await Jeon's return. Police estimated about 300 people gathered, holding the Taegeukgi and the Stars and Stripes together, along with hand signs that read "Free Hangil Group," "Fabricated rebellion, hidden truth," and "Arrest Lee Jae-myung," and a large flag that read "Strong Korea-U.S. alliance." Some prepared flower bouquets, and filming equipment for YouTube live broadcasts was set up throughout the site.
Min Kyung-wook, head of the Home-to-Home Fair Election Korean Party, who has continuously raised suspicions of election fraud, and Kim Sang-hyun, head of the snack franchise "Gukdae Tteokbokki," also appeared at the airport.
When Jeon appeared at the arrivals hall, supporters cheered while singing the national anthem, and some chanted his name or slogans. At one point, it became noisy as supporters protested to reporters not to carry negative reports about Jeon. Police were said to have deployed one unit, including 87 officers and three buses, to maintain order.
Meeting with reporters, Jeon said, "I returned about five months after leaving Korea," and added, "I came back to comply with the police's request to appear. I have lived 55 years without breaking the law, but under the Lee Jae-myung administration I have already been accused eight times. It is excessive accusations and complaints to block freedom of expression." He went on, "There is no risk of flight or of destroying evidence, and I believe there is no crime," adding, "I will faithfully undergo questioning and prove my innocence."
Jeon cited a film release as the background for his return. He said, "We produced a film covering fabricated rebellion and hidden truth related to the Dec. 3, 2024 martial law, and it will be released soon," and added, "I hope citizens who want to know the facts, regardless of political leaning, will watch it." He also mentioned trials related to President Yoon Suk-yeol, adding, "I hope a conscientious judgment will be made based on the Constitution, the law and evidence."
Regarding his schedule to appear before police, he said, "Jurisdiction has been adjusted from the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency to Dongjak Police Station," and added, "I plan to appear as early as this week or on Thursday next week."
Jeon has been accused of incitement to insurrection, as well as defamation and intimidation against President Lee Jae-myung. Since leaving the country in Aug. last year, he has continued YouTube broadcasting activities while traveling between the United States, Canada, Japan and Australia.