Former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo Acquitted in First Trial Over Restaurant Donation
A South Korean court on Thursday found former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo not guilty of violating the Public Official Election Act for donating 1.5 million won (approximately $1,100) to a restaurant in Gwangju ahead of the presidential election.
The prosecution had charged Han with making an illegal political donation, arguing the contribution to the establishment—known as a "1,000-won restaurant" for its low-cost meals—constituted a violation of election law prohibiting candidates or prospective candidates from providing money or valuables to constituents.
In its ruling, the court determined that Han had not objectively expressed an intention to run for office at the time of the donation. Citing the lack of a declared candidacy, the judges concluded the act did not meet the legal standard for an election law violation. Multiple outlets, including KBS, Chosun Ilbo, Hankyoreh, Maeil Business Newspaper, and Asia Economy, reported the acquittal, noting the court's reasoning that there was no "objective expression of candidacy."
The ruling is a first-instance decision; prosecutors may appeal.