'Produce' An Jun-young Requests "Reconsider Fraud Charges"

[Asia Economy Reporter Baek Kyunghwan] The production director Ahn Jun-young, who was sentenced to prison in the first trial for vote manipulation allegations related to 'Produce 101,' requested the appellate court to "reconsider whether the fraud charge can be established."

On the 18th, the Seoul High Court Criminal Division 1 (Chief Judges Jung Jun-young, Song Young-seung, Kang Sang-wook) held the first appellate trial for PD Ahn, who was indicted on charges including fraud.

On this day, Ahn PD's defense attorney stated, "The defendant admits to the objective facts, but from the defense's perspective, we ask the court to review whether the legal principles of fraud apply." They added, "Although the defendant committed some wrongful acts, it is questionable whether these constitute deceptive acts."

In particular, regarding the prison sentence handed down in the first trial, the defense said, "Please consider whether the original sentence is appropriate, taking into account that the defendant had no personal gain and that the actions were part of efforts to improve the quality of the program he was in charge of."

The court pointed out, "This case caused great shock to viewers who watched the broadcast and took pride as 'national producers' by voting diligently," and added, "It is a case where students who worked hard to be fairly evaluated faced the harsh reality of unfair rank manipulation."

Since the prosecution and defense did not dispute any charges other than the sentencing in the first trial, the court decided to hear the final opinions of both sides on the 23rd of next month and conclude the appellate trial.

Meanwhile, PD Ahn and others are accused of manipulating the results of paid text votes from viewers during the live competitions of 'Produce 101' seasons 1 to 4, giving benefits to specific candidates.