Musical actor Nam Gyeong-ju, who has been put on trial on charges of raping a student, will face a jury trial in November.
The Seoul Central District Court Criminal Agreement Division 29 (Presiding Judge Eom Gi-pyo, Director General) said on the 26th that it held the first preparatory hearing in Nam's case on charges of intercourse by a person in authority and decided to hold a citizen participation jury trial for two days on Nov. 27 and 30.
Nam's side has said it wants a jury to decide, arguing that "the key issue is whether there was a protection and supervision relationship between the defendant and the victim." The victim's side, on the other hand, requested caution, saying that because this is a sexual violence case, the victim's wishes should also be respected.
The court accepted Nam's request. Acknowledging that jury trials have limits in protecting victims, the court explained its reason by saying, "For the defendant, this is a matter that will affect a lifetime."
On the first day, the court will hear opening statements on the indictment, examine evidence including closed-circuit (CC)TV video and recordings, and question five witnesses requested by the defense. On the second day, the victim's testimony, the defendant's questioning, the prosecution's sentencing demand, closing arguments, and the verdict are scheduled.
The court said it would allow various forms of argument as long as they do not rise to the level of insulting or threatening the other party. The court said, "In an extreme case, we would be willing to allow (the suspect) to make use of the major and perform a musical, and the same goes for the victim."
Nam is accused of raping a female student by exploiting social status and other means at a location in Seocho District, Seoul, in Dec. last year. Nam's side attempted to reach a settlement through criminal mediation, but it fell through because the victim refused.