Kang Min-seo, Representative of the Child Support Resolution Group (Yanghaemo) (center) [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy reporters Donghoon Jeong and intern Geunhwi Jeon] Kang Min-seo, the representative of the civic group Child Support Resolution Meeting (Yanghaemo), who was prosecuted for publicly disclosing the personal information of parents who did not pay child support, was acquitted.
On the 29th, Judge Yoo Chang-hoon of Criminal Division 7 at the Seoul Western District Court acquitted Kang on charges of violating the Act on Promotion of Information and Communications Network Utilization and Information Protection (defamation) at the sentencing hearing.
Judge Yoo stated, "The descriptions of the complainant as a 'former ski instructor' or 'businessman' are judged to be false," but added, "Considering that the defendant emphasized the necessity of paying child support during a phone call with the complainant and that there were no personal feelings involved, it is difficult to conclude that there was a false perception."
He continued, "The content regarding non-payment of child support was based on actual situations, and although Representative Kang did not personally verify the truth, he confirmed the child support payment judgment and hardships due to non-payment through the secretary-general," and stated, "I accept Kang's claim of innocence."
Kang was accused of posting the names, faces, and personal information of men known not to have paid child support on Bad Parents, along with expressions such as 'shameless' and 'former ski instructor.' The prosecution issued a summary order with a fine of 1 million won, but Kang appealed and requested a trial.
Previously, the prosecution had sought a fine of 1 million won.
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