Hyewon Sohn Loses First Trial in Damages Lawsuit Against SBS Over 'Mokpo Speculation Allegations' Report

Lost Final Appeal in Counter-Report Lawsuit
Criminal Case Concluded with a Fine

Former lawmaker Hyewon Sohn lost the first trial in her damages lawsuit against SBS, which reported on her alleged real estate speculation in Mokpo.

On November 12, the Civil Division 14 of the Seoul Central District Court (Presiding Judge Jeong Hajung) ruled against Sohn in her lawsuit seeking 500 million won in damages from SBS, stating, "All of the plaintiff's claims are dismissed." This first-instance ruling comes six years after Sohn filed the lawsuit.

Former lawmaker Hyewon Sohn. Photo by The Asia Business Daily.

Previously, the SBS investigative reporting team "Endless Pursuit" reported from January 15 to 22, 2019, that Sohn had allegedly purchased real estate under borrowed names through acquaintances after learning in advance about the potential designation of the Mokpo Modern History and Culture District as a cultural heritage site. In February of the same year, Sohn filed a lawsuit against SBS reporters seeking a counter-report and damages.

The lawsuit demanding a counter-report was finalized in the Supreme Court on July 27, 2023, with a ruling against Sohn. The Supreme Court stated that sufficient counter-reporting had been provided regarding the matters requested by Sohn, and that the purpose of her claim had been achieved, thus upholding the lower court's decision.

In connection with these allegations, Sohn was indicted for violating the Anti-Corruption Act and the Real Name Real Estate Act, and in November 2022, the Supreme Court finalized a fine of 10 million won against her. At the time, the Supreme Court found her guilty only of purchasing real estate under borrowed names, while acquitting her of the main charge of using information obtained through work for real estate purchases.

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