Lee Appears on MBC's "100-Minute Debate"
Responds to Accusations of Deliberate Trial Delay: "Not True"
Lee, the party leader, said he is "optimistic" about the outcome of the second trial regarding the alleged violation of the Public Official Election Act, which is scheduled for the 26th.
Appearing on MBC's "100-Minute Debate" on the evening of the 19th, Lee was asked whether the result of the second trial would affect his future political activities, such as a potential presidential bid. He responded, "That's a hypothetical question. Since there will be all sorts of speculation, I don't think it's appropriate for me to comment," but added, "It won't be a problem."
When asked about the principle that a sitting president is immune from criminal prosecution except in cases of insurrection or treason, Lee explained, "Indictment refers to bringing charges, and prosecution refers to the conduct of the trial. The majority opinion is that the trial would be suspended."
Regarding criticism that the second trial is being deliberately delayed due to the appointment of lawyers and the failure to receive court notifications, Lee said, "That is completely untrue. Whether or not I appoint a lawyer has no impact on the trial whatsoever," and explained, "As for not receiving court documents, it was simply because my wife was not at home to receive them. The documents were then sent to the National Assembly, where I received them immediately."
Lee is set to conclude the appellate hearing for the alleged violation of the Public Official Election Act on the 26th. Last year, on November 1, he was sentenced to one year in prison with a two-year suspended sentence in the first trial for allegedly spreading false information during the previous presidential election.
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