Shin Jeonghoon Fined 900,000 Won in Appeal, Retains Parliamentary Seat

Accused of Encouraging 'Double Voting'
Court Rules It Was a Spontaneous Remark

Shin Jeonghoon, Democratic Party of Korea. Photo by Yonhap News

Shin Jeonghoon, a Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker representing Naju and Hwasun in South Jeolla Province, who was brought to trial on charges of encouraging 'double voting' during the party's primary, will retain his parliamentary seat following his appeal trial as well.

The Criminal Division 2 of the Gwangju High Court (Presiding Judge Lee Euyeong) on July 22 sentenced Shin to a fine of 900,000 won, the same as in the first trial, for violating the Public Official Election Act. Under the Act, if a confirmed sentence is less than 1 million won, the right to run for office and the current position are maintained.

The court stated, "It appears to have been a spontaneous remark made during a campaign event, and he did not directly appeal for himself to be chosen," adding, "Of the roughly 20 people present at the scene, only three were registered party members with voting rights, and it was not confirmed that these individuals actually engaged in double voting."

Immediately after the sentencing, Shin said, "I humbly accept the court's decision. I am grateful for being given another opportunity to work," and added, "I will faithfully serve for the era of popular sovereignty and the advancement of democracy."

Shin was indicted on charges of encouraging about 20 residents of his constituency, one month before the 22nd National Assembly election in March last year, to participate in a public opinion poll as ordinary citizens while concealing their status as Democratic Party voting members.

The first trial court explained its sentencing by stating, "The impact of the remarks on the election was limited," and "considering that he was elected both in the primary and the general election even after the incident became public." The appellate court upheld this judgment.

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