I understand. I will focus solely on converting the numerical and financial data in the [translateContent] to match the [originContent] accurately, without reproducing any copyrighted material or making other changes to the text. Here is the result with only the relevant numerical conversions: [MILITARY TIMES] Former South Korean Presidential Candidate’s Campaign Chief Appeals Defamation Conviction Lee Su-jeong, the Suwon branch head of South Korea’s People Power Party, has appealed her conviction for spreading false information about the military service of President Lee Jae-myung’s sons. The appeal comes after she was fined for a social media post claiming the sons had received military exemptions.
On April 10, Lee’s legal team filed an appeal with Judge Jang Seok-jun of the Suwon District Court’s 13th Criminal Division.
Lee, a prominent criminal psychologist, posted misleading content on social media last May, just before the presidential election. Her post falsely claimed that Lee Jae-myung’s eldest son was exempted from military service due to online gambling and mental health issues, while the younger son allegedly received an exemption for a herniated disc.
Contrary to Lee’s claims, both of President Lee’s sons completed their mandatory service, serving as Air Force sergeants.
After deleting the post, Lee attempted to explain her actions, stating, “I shared the information for about 10 seconds before realizing it was incorrect and immediately removing it. I ask for your understanding and forgiveness.”
Despite her apology, Lee later commented on the “frightening nature of a surveillance society,” drawing further criticism.
The Democratic Party dismissed her statement as “an apology that doesn’t resemble an apology.”
During the final hearing on March 13, prosecutors sought a fine of 500,000 KRW (approximately 375 USD).
In her closing statement, Lee expressed remorse, saying, “I deeply regret my foolishness in falling for fake news. I sincerely apologize for causing social confusion and unintentionally harming the candidate and his children due to my carelessness.”
On April 5, the court fined Lee 300,000 KRW (about 225 USD) for violating the Public Official Election Act and the Information and Communications Network Act.
Under South Korean law, a fine exceeding 1 million KRW (750 USD) for election law violations results in a five-year ban on running for office.
The court stated, “Even though the post was quickly deleted, the potential impact of internet content is significant. The risk of influencing voters’ judgment cannot be overlooked. Additionally, the defendant has neither reached an agreement with nor received forgiveness from the victims.”
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