Former MBC Reporter Accused of 'Bus Sexual Harassment'... Suspended Sentence

6 Months Imprisonment with 2 Years Probation

[Asia Economy Reporter Oh Gyumin] A former MBC reporter who was prosecuted for sexual harassment on a bus received a suspended sentence in the first trial.

The Criminal Division 6 of the Seoul Western District Court (Judge Gong Seongbong) sentenced former MBC reporter A, who was charged with violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Crimes (indecent act in a crowded public place), to six months in prison with a two-year suspension on the 8th. Additionally, A was ordered to complete 40 hours of a sexual violence treatment program and was banned from employment at child and youth-related institutions for three years.

The court stated the reason for sentencing, saying, "The defendant has confessed and shown remorse, and has reached a settlement with the victim."

A is accused of sexually harassing passengers on a bus passing through Eunpyeong-gu, Seoul, around March 16. Accordingly, the Seoul Western Police Station sent A to the prosecution in custody last April. Subsequently, MBC placed A on standby and reportedly accepted his resignation last month.

At the sentencing hearing held on the 18th of last month, the prosecution demanded one year of imprisonment and three years of employment restriction for A. In his final statement at that time, A said, "I apologize to the victim," and added, "I post reflective writings to the victim every day and pray that only good things will happen in the future." He continued, "I, who must take responsibility for my beloved wife and daughter, will never repeat such a mistake again."

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