In this file photo taken Jan. 19, 2025, the facade of the Seoul Western District Court is seen destroyed after supporters of former President Yoon Suk Yeol stormed into the courthouse in protest against the court’s decision to formally arrest Yoon over his failed bid to impose martial law in December. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, May 9 (Korea Bizwire) — Prosecutors on Friday demanded a two-year prison term for a man accused of beating a reporter during a violent mob attack at the Seoul Western District Court earlier this year.
The 37-year-old man, surnamed Park, was indicted on charges of kicking and tugging at the camera of a video reporter of broadcaster MBC on Jan. 19.
Park was among a mob of supporters of former President Yoon Suk Yeol who stormed into the Seoul Western District Court in protest against the court’s decision to formally arrest the suspended president over his failed bid to impose martial law in December.
During the final hearing of Park’s trial at the same court on Friday, the prosecution said he was “very aggressive and coercive” in his actions compared with his accomplices, as he kicked the victim, shoved his head and stepped on his neck.
“Considering the victim’s psychological and physical damage from the (beating), the defendant’s crime is quite grave,” the prosecution added.
Park’s lawyer pleaded with the court for leniency, saying he was regretful of his actions and had reached a settlement with the victim.
The sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 28.
(Yonhap)
