"Prosecution, Indictment, and Fine Over a 1,000-Won Snack Reflect Harsh Reality... Acquittal in Appeal Sparks Outrage on Social Media"

'Choco Pie Theft Case' Ends in Acquittal at Appeals Court
Criticism Mounts Over 'Excessive Response' by Judicial Authorities

"The fact that a case involving a single Choco Pie has reached the appellate court speaks volumes about the harsh realities we face today."

In the so-called 'Choco Pie Theft Case,' which sparked social controversy after a security company employee at a logistics firm was prosecuted for stealing snacks worth 1,050 won, the appellate court has acquitted the defendant. As Mr. A (41) was found not guilty after nearly two years, criticism has erupted online, with many questioning, "Is it normal for someone to go through nearly two years of trial over a snack worth just about 1,000 won?" As minor theft cases continue to go to trial, debates over 'excessive response by judicial authorities' have reignited.

Image to aid understanding of the article. Image Today

"Almost Branded a Criminal"... Netizens Lament Harsh Reality

One netizen commented on an article detailing the verdict, "Mr. A was almost branded a criminal. People eat food to survive, but all I can do is laugh in disbelief." Other criticisms followed, such as, "Punishing someone as a shameless petty thief for eating snacks that have been customarily available for ten years is excessive," "Even if he intended to steal, is it right to have a two-year trial over 1,050 won?" and "This seems like a lawsuit just to harass someone."

There was also a wave of criticism directed at the court that handed down the guilty verdict in the first trial, as well as at the prosecutors and police who investigated and prosecuted the case. Comments included, "It makes no sense to file a complaint over 1,000 won. Because of cases like this, prosecutors can't focus on more important matters," "Those in power who embezzle billions are never investigated, but they go all out for a 1,000 won theft. The rich are innocent, the poor are guilty," "They put Mr. A through two years of suffering over a 1,000 won Choco Pie. Only cases that truly constitute crimes should go to trial," and "If stealing a Choco Pie is enough to warrant prison, then there are many wealthy people who should be disqualified and sent to jail."

On the 27th, when the appellate court in the "Choco Pie Theft Case" acquitted the defendant, defense attorney Park Jungkyo expressed gratitude, saying, "Thanks to the media and many thoughtful people who showed great interest, we seem to have achieved a good outcome today." Photo by Yonhap News Agency

"Technically Theft"... Some Argue Guilty Verdict Was Needed

However, some argued that, regardless of the small amount, the act still constitutes theft under the law. Some said, "Even if you steal just 10 won, it's theft," and "Mr. A was acquitted due to public opinion." Another netizen commented, "Of course, technically it is theft. But if we punish every such act, only angels could live in this world."

Previously, Mr. A, a security company employee at a logistics firm in Wanju County, North Jeolla Province, stood trial for allegedly taking a 400-won Choco Pie and a 600-won custard from the office refrigerator at 4:06 a.m. on January 18 last year. He claimed, "Delivery drivers always said, 'There are snacks in the fridge, so feel free to help yourself,'" but the first trial court found intent to steal and fined him 50,000 won.

The appellate court stated, "There was testimony that security company employees would often open the door for delivery drivers in advance, and that, as a gesture of gratitude, the delivery drivers would sometimes give snacks prepared for them to the security staff. While it may not be the case that the defendant obtained explicit consent from the victim to take the Choco Pie and other items, it is difficult to conclude that the defendant had the intention to take them against the victim's wishes." The court overturned the original verdict and fine of 50,000 won and acquitted the defendant.