"Truth Has Prevailed"... Haenam, Wando, and Jindo Celebrate Park Jiwon's Acquittal

Local Provincial and County Council Members Offer Congratulations, Saying "Justice Has Prevailed"
"A Historic Day, a Great Victory for the People" ? Waves of Encouragement

After Park Jiwon, a lawmaker from the Democratic Party of Korea representing Haenam, Wando, and Jindo in South Jeolla Province, was acquitted in the first trial on charges of concealing the 2020 West Sea government official shooting incident, voices of welcome and congratulations have continued in the local community.

The Seoul Central District Court’s Criminal Agreement Division 25 delivered a not-guilty verdict to Assemblyman Park on the 26th. The court did not recognize the concealment charges brought by the prosecution.

Following the acquittal of Congressman Park Jiwon, who was indicted on charges of concealing the West Sea civil servant shooting incident, voices of welcome and congratulations have continued in the local community. Photo by Congressman Park Jiwon's Office

Immediately following the verdict, politicians and residents from Haenam, Wando, and Jindo expressed their congratulations and delight. Lee Cheol, Vice Chairman of the South Jeolla Provincial Council, said, "I was present at the Seoul courthouse," adding, "You have endured a lot of hardship. Congratulations."

Provincial Assemblyman Shin Eijun stated, "No one can hide the truth. I sincerely congratulate you," and added, "I hope you will continue to play an even greater role for the nation, the people, and your constituents." Kim Shin, former Wando County Council member, commented, "It is fortunate that the targeted investigation has resulted in justice prevailing," and offered comfort for the hardships endured.

Local county council members also joined in, saying, "You have gone through a lot," and "Justice has prevailed," offering their congratulations in unison. One county council member described the day as "a historic day," while another expressed hopes for "the development of Haenam, Wando, and Jindo, and for Assemblyman Park’s continued success."

Local residents also joined in the celebrations. A resident of Haenam said, "I am glad that the injustice has been resolved," and added, "I hope you will continue to work hard for the region."

A resident of Wando described it as "an excellent verdict that demonstrates the truth will always come to light," while a resident of Jindo said, "I am relieved that a good outcome has come after such a long period of hardship."

Immediately after the acquittal, Assemblyman Park declared, "Park Jiwon has won," and vowed, "I will push even harder for reform and devote myself completely."

He continued, "The Unification Church and Shincheonji must be investigated by a special prosecutor to protect the Constitution," and insisted, "There must be a thorough investigation into violations of the principle of separation of church and state." He also emphasized, "Allegations related to former President Yoon Suk-yeol and First Lady Kim Keon-hee must also be investigated through a comprehensive special prosecution."

He added, "A special prosecution must be swift and clear, and should not cause public fatigue," stressing, "Reform must proceed together with the people."