'False Interview Allegations' Shin Hak-rim Files Objection to Prosecutors' Search and Seizure

Former Press Union Chairman Shin Hak-rim, who is accused of reporting a 'false interview' regarding allegations that President Yoon Seok-yeol suppressed the investigation into the Busan Savings Bank case just before the last presidential election, has filed a quasi-appeal with the court objecting to the prosecution's search and seizure.

Former Press Union Chairman Shin Hak-rim [Image source=Yonhap News]

According to the legal community on the 6th, Shin's legal representative filed a quasi-appeal with the Seoul Central District Court on the 4th against the prosecution's search and seizure. A quasi-appeal is a procedure in which a person subject to actions such as search and seizure by investigative agencies files an objection with the court.

Shin's side requested the return of seized items from the prosecution last month, but when the prosecution refused to return them, they filed a quasi-appeal in objection.

On the 1st of last month, the prosecution conducted a search and seizure at Shin's residence and other locations, securing mobile phones, laptops, and publishing-related documents. Shin is accused of conspiring with Kim Man-bae, the major shareholder of Hwacheon Daeyu Asset Management, on March 6 last year, three days before the presidential election, to report a false interview regarding President Yoon's alleged suppression of the Busan Savings Bank investigation, and receiving 162 million won from Kim as a bribe (embezzlement). He is also charged with damaging President Yoon's reputation by reporting unverified false information (violation of the Information and Communications Network Act).