Lee Jae-myung on Kim Kyung-soo's Guilty Verdict: "Unexpected Outcome... Very Regrettable"

[Asia Economy Reporter Koo Chae-eun] Gyeonggi Province Governor Lee Jae-myung expressed regret on the 21st regarding Gyeongnam Province Governor Kim Kyung-soo's final confirmation of a 2-year prison sentence by the Supreme Court for charges of comment manipulation, saying, "I was expecting good news, but this is an unexpected outcome."

Governor Lee conveyed this through his SNS on the same day, stating, "As comrades from the same party, we have shared various concerns... It is very unfortunate." He added, "I believe you will endure this difficult time well and return to us with that kind smile of yours."

Earlier, Park Sung-joon, a spokesperson for Governor Lee's camp and a member of the National Assembly, expressed deep regret over the Supreme Court's ruling, saying, "The Supreme Court's judgment is disappointing." Park emphasized, "The truth that Governor Kim Kyung-soo sought to clarify through judicial procedures could not be found in the end. I offer my condolences to the citizens of Gyeongnam who supported and encouraged the Gyeongnam provincial government for three years. The truth is one."

Previously, the Supreme Court upheld the original sentence of 2 years imprisonment in the appeal trial of Governor Kim, who was indicted on charges of comment manipulation. However, the not guilty verdict on charges of violating the Public Official Election Act was confirmed. As a result, Governor Kim will lose his position and be re-incarcerated.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.