'Rhyme' Kim Bong-hyun's acquaintances who helped him escape via Paldang Bridge receive suspended sentences

Acquittal with probation was handed down to acquaintances who helped former Star Mobility Chairman Kim Bong-hyun (49) evade arrest.

On the 5th, Judge Jeon Beom-sik of the Seoul Southern District Court Criminal Division 8 sentenced acquaintance A (49), who is accused of aiding a fugitive, to 8 months in prison with 2 years of probation. Acquaintance B (60) received 6 months in prison with 2 years of probation, and A’s junior C (37) was sentenced to 4 months in prison with 2 years of probation.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The court stated, "The defendants helped former Chairman Kim, who was on trial for serious criminal charges, to escape," and added, "The defendants' responsibility is not light." The fact that the defendants surrendered to the investigation authorities and cooperated in Kim’s capture was taken into consideration as a mitigating factor. Additionally, the court mentioned that it considered fairness with other defendants who also assisted in the escape.

A and others were indicted on charges of assisting former Chairman Kim’s escape in November last year, when Kim fled ahead of the final trial while on trial for embezzlement related to Star Mobility and Suwon Passenger Transport.

A few days before his escape, Kim discussed detailed escape plans with A and B, promising private Toto and casino operations. A, at Kim’s request the day before the escape, had B assist in the escape. On the day of the escape, B cut off Kim’s electronic ankle bracelet near Paldang Bridge and picked him up, helping him switch vehicles.

C was charged with hiding Kim in an apartment in Dongtan New Town, Hwaseong City, Gyeonggi Province, which he had short-term leased under his name at A’s request, and providing Kim with a mobile phone and daily necessities.

Previously, the prosecution requested the court on the 8th of last month to sentence A to 10 months in prison, B to 8 months in prison, and C to a fine of 5 million won.

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