Defendants Say "We Have Not Yet Reviewed the Case Records"
Accused of Attempting to Purchase Marijuana at Least Nine Times
The first trial of the son and daughter-in-law of Lee Chulgyu, a member of the People Power Party, who have been indicted on charges of drug use, ended after just 15 minutes. The defendants did not make any statements regarding whether they admitted to the charges or not.
On June 18, the 36th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court (Presiding Judge Lee Jungyeop) held the first trial for Lee's son, Mr. Lee, his wife, Ms. Lim, and others, who are charged with violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics. The defense stated, "We have not yet reviewed the case records," and said they would present their position on the charges at the next hearing.
Previously, Mr. Lee and others requested a change of date, citing that they were unable to copy the case records. However, the court decided to proceed with the trial since one of the defendants is in custody. As a result, the hearing concluded after the prosecution read the indictment and the next trial date was set.
It was confirmed that Mr. Lee submitted three letters of reflection to the court prior to the first hearing. On this day, the court stated, "We have read the letters you submitted."
Mr. Lee is accused of attempting to receive liquid marijuana using the so-called "throwing" method in a residential area in Seocho-gu, Seoul, in October last year. At the time of the incident, Mr. Lee was reportedly in a rental car with his spouse, Ms. Lim, and another individual.
On May 16, the prosecution indicted Mr. Lee and his accomplice, Mr. Jeong, a middle school classmate, and placed them in detention. Mr. Lee's wife, Ms. Lim, and Mr. Kwon, his former military superior, were indicted without detention.
According to the prosecution, Mr. Lee attempted to purchase marijuana at least nine times and directly contacted sellers on Telegram. It is also known that Mr. Lee had previously been referred to the prosecution on marijuana charges but was not indicted. Although Mr. Lee tested negative in a preliminary reagent test, a detailed analysis by the National Forensic Service detected marijuana components in his hair.
The court will hold the second trial on July 10 to hear whether the defendants admit to the charges.
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