Independent Film Director Given Probation for Attempted Sexual Assault on Film Industry Colleague

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Donghoon Jeong] An independent film director who was prosecuted for attempting to sexually assault a colleague in the film industry has been sentenced to a suspended prison term.

According to the legal community on the 14th, the Criminal Division 12 of the Seoul Western District Court (Chief Judge Andongbeom) sentenced Director Song, who was indicted without detention on charges of forcible molestation and attempted rape, to 2 years in prison with a 3-year suspension. He was also ordered to attend 80 hours of sexual violence treatment lectures, perform 120 hours of community service, and was restricted from employment at child and youth-related institutions and welfare facilities for the disabled for 3 years. However, the order to disclose and notify personal information was exempted.

Director Song was prosecuted for forcibly kissing a colleague in the film industry in 2017 and attempting sexual assault, which ended in an attempt. He largely admitted to the charge of forcible molestation but partially denied the attempted rape charge, claiming that he stopped the act voluntarily, not due to the victim's resistance.

The court ruled, "The defendant's cessation of the crime does not appear to be voluntary, so the claim is not accepted," and "The defendant is found guilty of both forcible molestation and attempted rape." The court further explained the sentencing rationale, stating, "It is unfavorable that the defendant did not reach an agreement with the victim and has a prior record of sexual violence crimes. However, considering the defendant's attitude of remorse, the fact that it was an attempted rape, and the clear social ties, it is deemed appropriate to give an opportunity."