Political Scandal: What Led to the Suspension of a Korean Politician’s Election Rights?

Lee Soo-jung, chairwoman of the People Power Party’s Suwon branch, has appealed a lower court’s ruling that imposed a fine equivalent to disqualification from running for office. The verdict came after she posted false information on social media claiming that President Lee Jae-myung’s two sons had received military exemptions during the 21st presidential election campaign.

Legal sources report that Lee’s attorney filed an appeal with the 13th Criminal Division of the Suwon District Court, presided over by Judge Jang Seok-jun, on the 10th.

On the 5th, the lower court had fined Lee 3 million KRW (approximately $2,250) for violating the Public Official Election Act and the Information and Communications Network Act, specifically for disseminating false information and defaming candidates.

The court stated, “Despite the defendant’s swift deletion of the post, the potential impact of internet-based misinformation cannot be underestimated. The offense significantly undermines voters’ ability to make informed decisions. Moreover, the defendant has neither reached a settlement with nor received forgiveness from the victim.”

In her final statement, Lee expressed remorse, saying, “I deeply regret my foolishness in falling for and spreading fake news. I sincerely apologize for causing social unrest and unintentionally harming the candidate and his family due to my negligence. I am reflecting deeply on my actions.” She appealed for leniency from the court.

Under the Public Official Election Act, a fine exceeding 1 million KRW (about $750) results in a five-year ban on running for office, effectively restricting her eligibility for future elections.

The incident occurred on May 28 last year, just before the presidential election, when Lee posted on her Facebook account that both the candidate and his two sons had received military exemptions. This post prompted a complaint from the Democratic Party.

Contrary to Lee’s claims, official records show that President Lee’s sons have indeed fulfilled their mandatory military service.

After the controversy erupted, Lee deleted the post and attempted to explain her actions, stating, “I shared information that was circulating online for about ten seconds before realizing it was false and immediately removing it. I sincerely ask for forgiveness.”