The Democratic Party of Korea expressed regret on the 12th over the confirmation of a 2-year prison sentence for former leader Cho Kuk of the Innovation Party.
Democratic Party spokesperson Park Kyung-mi said in a briefing, "We feel deep sorrow for former leader Cho, who accepted the verdict saying he would fulfill his responsibility as a citizen who upholds the law and principles, despite being a victim of prosecutorial abuse of power."
Spokesperson Park criticized, "While the prosecution consistently turned a blind eye to the endless allegations against Kim Geon-hee, such as stock manipulation and receiving luxury handbags, it showed a double standard by ruthlessly destroying former leader Cho with a reckless sword dance."
He added, "Over the past few years, the prosecution has run rampant, conducting targeted investigations and dusting off dirt on opposition figures," and pointed out, "Reflect on whether the prosecution, which has abused its investigative and prosecutorial powers to realize 'selective justice,' truly deserves to stand proudly before the people."
The Supreme Court's 3rd Division (Presiding Justice Eom Sang-pil) on the same day upheld the original sentence of 2 years imprisonment and a fine of 6 million won against former leader Cho, who was indicted on charges including forgery and use of private documents, obstruction of business, and violation of the Anti-Graft Act. As a result, former leader Cho lost his parliamentary seat and stepped down from his party leadership position.
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