[Asia Economy Reporter Seongpil Cho] Former Channel A reporter Dongjae Lee has increased the amount claimed in his damages lawsuit against Choi Kang-wook, leader of the Open Democratic Party, who is accused of spreading false information about him, from 50 million won to 200 million won.
On the 26th, Choi Jang-ho, Lee’s legal representative, issued a press release stating, "We have determined that there is no room for improvement due to Leader Choi’s completely unrepentant attitude." Choi added, "The false information cited by Leader Choi was broadcast and viewed by over 10 million people through media outlets and YouTube (referred to as 'Yubuteu' in the press release) channels, and was reproduced on various social media platforms, spreading to millions and causing damage that is impossible for an individual to bear. Considering that most of the materials are digital, recovery of the damage is practically impossible."
Earlier, Leader Choi was indicted last April for defamation by spreading false information about former reporter Lee in a post titled 'Summary of Channel A reporter’s statements in letters and transcripts' on social networking services (SNS). Subsequently, in January, Lee filed a lawsuit against Leader Choi demanding a correction and damages for illegal acts. The initial claim amount was 50 million won.
Former reporter Lee was indicted on charges of attempted intimidation against former Representative Lee by demanding whistleblowing on corruption information involving ruling party figures including Roh Moo-hyun Foundation Chairman Yoo Si-min, but was acquitted in the first trial on the 16th. After the acquittal, Lee submitted a petition for severe punishment against Leader Choi to the Criminal Division 16 of the Seoul Central District Court, which is handling Choi’s criminal trial. On the 23rd, Lee appeared as a witness at Choi’s continued trial and said, "I hope (Leader Choi) receives the strongest punishment so that people in our country will know that the rule of law exists."
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