Pastor Jeon Gwang-hoon, Who Held Gatherings During COVID-19 Spread, Sentenced to Prison with Suspension and Fines in First Trial

Court Sentences 1 Year 6 Months Imprisonment, 3 Years Probation, and 4.5 Million Won Fine

[Asia Economy Reporter Heo Kyung-jun] Pastor Jeon Gwang-hoon of Sarang Jeil Church, who was indicted for leading a rally in violation of quarantine guidelines, was sentenced to a suspended prison term and a fine in the first trial.

The Criminal Division 25-3 of the Seoul Central District Court (Presiding Judges Park Sa-rang, Park Jeong-gil, Park Jeong-je) on the 15th sentenced Pastor Jeon, who was indicted for violating the Assembly and Demonstration Act and the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act, to 1 year and 6 months in prison with a 3-year suspension and a fine of 4.5 million won.

Kim Kyung-jae, former president of the Korea Freedom Federation, and Kim Soo-yeol, a representative of conservative groups, who were indicted on the same charges, were sentenced to 6 months in prison with a 2-year suspension and fined 4 million won and 3 million won, respectively.

Pastor Jeon Gwang-hoon of Sarang Jeil Church is leaving after the sentencing hearing held on the afternoon of the 15th at the Seoul Central District Court in Seocho-dong.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

Pastor Jeon was prosecuted for holding a rally near Gwanghwamun Station on August 15, 2020, demanding the resignation of then-President Moon Jae-in, despite a COVID-19 cluster infection occurring.

At that time, the Seoul Metropolitan Government ordered a ban on rallies, but the court permitted limited rallies at two locations, including in front of Dongwha Duty Free Shop in Jongno-gu, which led to Sarang Jeil Church followers gathering near Gwanghwamun Station. Pastor Jeon, who was subject to self-quarantine, violated the quarantine authorities' instructions and attended the rally.

The court stated, "At that time, the activities of all citizens were restricted due to COVID-19, and numerous medical staff and public officials were making devoted efforts," and judged, "Although the ban infringed on the freedom of assembly, it was an inevitable measure for public welfare."

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