Yoo Youngjae Admits to Crime but Claims Sentencing Is Unfair
Acknowledges "Lack of Awareness Regarding Intimacy and Sexual Standards"
The prosecution has requested the same sentence of five years in prison in the appellate trial for broadcaster Yoo Young-jae (61), who was sentenced to a prison term in the first trial for forcibly molesting actress Sunwoo Eun-sook's biological older sister.
The prosecution requested the same sentence of 5 years in prison in the appellate trial for broadcaster Yoo Young-jae, who was sentenced to a prison term in the first trial for forcibly molesting actress Sunwoo Eun-sook's (right) biological older sister. Starit Entertainment, Gyeongin Broadcasting
According to Yonhap News Agency, on the 16th, the 2-3 Criminal Division (B) of the Suwon High Court held the first appellate trial for Yoo Young-jae, who was detained on charges of violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Crimes (forcible molestation within family relations). Yoo Young-jae was prosecuted for forcibly molesting Sunwoo Eun-sook's biological older sister five times between March and October 2023, when she was his wife.
On that day, Yoo Young-jae's side admitted all charges but argued that the sentencing was unfair. Yoo's side stated, "The defendant has been emotionally distressed since being incarcerated," and added, "He admits and confesses to all issues but has appealed on the grounds of unfair sentencing."
The defense team pleaded for leniency, saying, "He lives each day with remorse for committing a serious crime during his imprisonment and apologizes to the victim." They also emphasized that aside from a prior drunk driving record, he has no other criminal offenses, stating, "Petitions have been submitted by Yoo Young-jae's family and supporters. To maintain these relationships, he will not commit any further crimes."
Yoo Young-jae, appearing in court wearing a green prison uniform with a beard, said in his final statement, "I reflect on my past time. I lacked awareness regarding intimacy and sexual standards," and added, "I regret coming to this point due to a moment of poor judgment."
However, the prosecution requested the court to dismiss Yoo Young-jae's appeal and uphold the original sentence, which was a five-year prison term. The prosecution had also requested five years in prison in the first trial.
Previously, on January 23, the first trial court sentenced Yoo Young-jae to two years and six months in prison, 40 hours of sexual violence treatment program, and a five-year employment ban at institutions related to children, adolescents, and persons with disabilities. Yoo Young-jae, who was on bail during the trial, was detained immediately after the first trial sentencing.
The second trial sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 11.
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