Prosecution Silent for Nearly Two Years on Seocheon County Council Member's Lawsuit... Controversy Over Alleged Favoritism in Investigation

Despite Seocheon Police Recommending Indictment, No Summons Investigation Conducted
Prosecution States "No Political Considerations... Decision Will Be Made Soon"

Yonhap News

The controversy continues as a case involving the violation of the Protection of Communications Secrets Act in Seocheon County, Chungnam, has remained unresolved for nearly two years due to delays in the prosecution's investigation.

According to an Asia Economy report on the 7th, Seocheon Police Station referred Council Member Lee Jihae of the Seocheon County Council and a civic group leader, identified as Mr. A, to the prosecution in June 2023 with a recommendation for indictment on charges of secretly recording and distributing conversations of fellow council members.

However, it has been reported that the Hongseong Branch of the Daejeon District Prosecutors' Office has not conducted a single summons investigation to date. This has led to criticism within the Seocheon community, with some questioning whether the prosecution lacks investigative capacity or is intentionally protecting certain individuals.

In particular, Council Member Lee Kangsun, the victim in this case, submitted a petition urging for a swift investigation, but the prosecution has remained unresponsive.

Lee strongly criticized, "Seeing the perpetrators move about in society without any remorse makes me question whether this is truly a law-abiding country."

Residents of Seocheon have also expressed strong dissatisfaction with the prosecution's attitude. Resident Mr. B pointed out, "Since becoming a council member, Lee Jihae has been involved in various controversies, including abusing power over public officials and local hospitals," and added, "I suspect the prosecution is turning a blind eye simply because she is a council member."

In response, a prosecution official stated, "There are absolutely no political considerations, and we will make a decision as soon as possible." However, given that the case has remained unresolved for over a year, such explanations are unlikely to gain public trust.

Meanwhile, violation of the Protection of Communications Secrets Act is a serious offense punishable by imprisonment of at least one year and up to ten years. Nevertheless, the prosecution's prolonged handling of the case appears to be fueling public distrust in the judicial system.