[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Hyung-min] Former President Jeon Du-hwan will face a criminal trial without appearing in court.
On the 25th, according to the Gwangju District Court, Criminal Division 8 Judge Kim Jeong-hoon approved Jeon’s request for the defendant’s non-appearance.
Judge Kim stated, "Considering all circumstances, it is judged that allowing non-appearance will not hinder the protection of the defendant’s rights."
Unlike civil lawsuits, criminal trials require the defendant to appear at the trial and sentencing dates to proceed.
However, cases involving fines or penalties of 5 million won or less, cases where the prosecution is dismissed or exempted, and cases where only the defendant has requested a formal trial do not require appearance.
For cases punishable by imprisonment or detention of up to 3 years, or fines exceeding 5 million won or detention, non-appearance trials are possible if the court accepts the defendant’s request and grants permission.
Jeon’s side reportedly applied for non-appearance permission citing that the charge of defamation of a deceased person carries a penalty of imprisonment or detention of up to 2 years or a fine of up to 5 million won.
Even if the court permits non-appearance, the defendant must appear on the first trial date when evidence is presented and on the sentencing date.
Jeon was indicted for defaming the late Father Jo Bi-o by claiming in his 2017 memoir that Father Jo’s testimony witnessing helicopter gunfire was false, calling him a "shameless liar unworthy of being called a clergyman."
The next trial will be held on the 1st of next month at 2 p.m. in Criminal Courtroom 201 at the Gwangju District Court.
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