
South Korea's main opposition leader, Lee Jae-myung, has been convicted of violating the country's election law. The Seoul Central District Court handed him a one-year prison sentence, suspended for two years.
This ruling, if upheld, could have major political ramifications, potentially stripping Lee of his parliamentary seat and barring him from running in the 2027 presidential election.
The court found Lee guilty of making false statements during the 2022 presidential election campaign, specifically regarding his acquaintance with Kim Moon-ki, a late city official involved in a controversial development project in Seongnam.
Lee, who narrowly lost to President Yoon Suk-yeol in the 2022 election, announced his intention to appeal the decision, stating, "I will be appealing. Beginning with the basic facts, it is a conclusion that is difficult to accept."
He emphasized the importance of the courts of public opinion and history, indicating plans to take the case to the Supreme Court. His supporters and critics gathered outside the court, expressing opposing views on the verdict.
The conviction adds to Lee's legal challenges, as he faces multiple trials on charges including bribery and corruption. Despite these hurdles, Lee remains a prominent figure in South Korean politics, with his party achieving a landslide victory in the April parliamentary elections, which dealt a blow to President Yoon's ruling party. Lee's legal team and his party have accused prosecutors of pursuing a politically motivated case against him.
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