Trial Opens for Hong Ga-hye's 100 Million Won Defamation Lawsuit Against the State Over Sewol Ferry Coast Guard Honor Acquittal

Hong Ga-hye [Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Seok-jin] The first hearing of the damages lawsuit filed by Hong Ga-hye, who was acquitted after being prosecuted for defaming the honor of the Coast Guard during an interview related to the Sewol ferry rescue operation, against the state and others took place on the 8th.

At the trial held under the presiding of Chief Judge Cha Young-min of Civil Division 42 at the Seoul Central District Court, Hong’s legal representative argued, "The investigation proceeded according to an internal policy to 'punish' without clearly specifying the fact of defamation itself," adding, "In the process, fact verification was inadequately conducted, which influenced the overall investigation."

Hong was prosecuted on charges of defaming the honor of the Coast Guard and others by spreading false information during a broadcast interview on April 18, 2014, shortly after the Sewol ferry disaster, stating, “The equipment and personnel that the Coast Guard promised to provide are not being deployed at all. The Coast Guard only wastes time with civilian divers and tells them to leave.”

She was also accused of posting false statements on her social network service (SNS) implying that government officials obstructed the rescue activities of civilian divers.

However, the court acquitted Hong, stating that it was difficult to conclude that she had the 'intent to defame.'

After her acquittal was confirmed by the Supreme Court on November 29, 2018, Hong filed a lawsuit in March the following year at the Seoul Central District Court, seeking 100 million won in damages against the Republic of Korea and three others.

At that time, Hong expressed her hardship endured during the long trial process and pointed out, "From the beginning, I did not state false facts, and the prosecution and police, who are well aware that the legal elements of defamation were not met, proceeded with the investigation excessively."

She further explained the reason for filing the lawsuit, saying, "I intend to file the complaint to hold accountable the police, prosecution, and the Republic of Korea for the illegal and unjust investigation conducted during my arrest and detention process."