Former Lawmakers Myung Taekyun and Kim Youngsun Released on Bail After About 5 Months in Detention

Myung Taegyun, a key figure in the allegations of nomination interference involving former President Yoon Sukyeol and his wife, and former lawmaker Kim Youngsun, have been released after being detained for about five months.

The Criminal Division 4 of the Changwon District Court in Gyeongnam (Presiding Judge Kim Intaek) on the 9th granted bail to Myung and Kim, who had been indicted and detained on charges of violating the Political Funds Act.

Bail is a system in which a detained defendant is released on the condition of posting a deposit or securing a guarantor, with restrictions such as residence and contact with persons related to the case.

Former lawmaker Youngsun Kim (left) and Taegyun Myung, who were arrested and indicted on charges of violating the Political Funds Act. Photo by Seryeong Lee

The court stated, "Given the progress of the trial, it appears difficult to conclude the trial before the detention period expires, and considering the defendant's right to defense, bail is granted."

The court imposed conditions on Myung and Kim, including restrictions on their residence and a deposit of 50 million won each.

The two were detained and brought to trial on November 15 last year on charges of exchanging 80.7 million won as a bribe for a nomination in the 2022 by-election for the National Assembly in Uichang, Changwon, Gyeongnam.

Myung was also indicted on charges of receiving 240 million won in political funds in exchange for nominations from candidates A and B, who ran for the positions of Goryeong County Governor in Gyeongbuk and Daegu City Council member, respectively, during the nationwide local elections that year.

Previously, Myung's side had applied for bail on December 5 last year citing deteriorating health, but it was not granted at that time.