Former lawmaker Jeong Bong-ju is attending the second trial sentencing for false accusation regarding the 'sexual harassment allegation rebuttal' held at the Seoul Central District Court on the afternoon of January 27. [Image source=Yonhap News]
[Asia Economy Reporter Kim So-young] Former lawmaker Jeong Bong-ju, who was accused of defaming an internet media outlet that reported allegations of his sexual harassment, has been acquitted by the Supreme Court.
On the 29th, the Supreme Court's First Division (Presiding Justice Lee Ki-taek) upheld the lower court's verdict of not guilty for Jeong, who was charged with false accusation and other offenses.
On the same day, Jeong posted on his Facebook, stating, "The MeToo false accusation is ultimately a lie," and said he would return to the world to find the reason he came to this world.
He wrote, "I am innocent. They tried every means to falsely accuse me, Jeong Bong-ju, of MeToo allegations, but their lies could not overcome my truth."
He continued, "Although I was acquitted, my life has been shattered," adding, "I have been to the brink of hell. I gave my all to survive and to reveal the truth." He also expressed gratitude, saying, "I sincerely thank the judges who believed my appeal and truthful claims. I will bow deeply."
Jeong further revealed, "I was trampled by MB, imprisoned, and pushed out of politics for 10 years, and trapped in the false MeToo snare for 4 years. During those 14 years in the pitch-black tunnel of darkness, I despaired at my powerless reality."
He said, "Now I will go out into the world. Among politicians and celebrities worldwide, I am the only one who survived the false MeToo accusations," and added, "I will stand where I am truly needed, using the pain I endured as a stepping stone."
He also emphasized, "With this second chance at life, this noble life, I will dedicate myself to illuminating the world. To those who supported and encouraged me, I will never disappoint you again."
Finally, he said, "Although I cannot reclaim the lost 14 years, with a heartfelt regret for the past time that slipped away, I will move forward more desperately and fiercely."
Earlier, in March 2018, the internet media outlet Pressian reported allegations that Jeong sexually harassed Ms. A at a hotel in Seoul. In response, Jeong held a press conference, calling the Pressian article "fake news, a blatant lie, a national scam," and sued six people including the reporter. The media outlet also countersued Jeong for defamation.
The first trial court stated, "Based solely on Ms. A's testimony, there is insufficient evidence to recognize sexual harassment, and the testimonies of acquaintances are hearsay with no independent evidentiary value," adding, "Jeong's press conference aimed to refute rapidly spreading reports, which is an exercise of the right to rebut or self-defense against the sexual harassment report."
The second trial court also acquitted Jeong, citing a lack of evidence to consider that he made false claims despite recalling the sexual harassment he allegedly committed in the past. The court stated, "We acquitted under the principle that in cases of doubt, judgment should be in favor of the defendant."
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