Com2us Holdings Reports Increased Losses in Q1 Due to Declining Game Revenue Com2us Holdings reported disappointing results for the first quarter, attributing the decline to reduced revenue from its games. The company aims to revitalize its performance by placing its two-year-old title, 'Soul Strike,' on a long-term success trajectory and launching over ten new titles in the second half of the year. On May 13, Com2us Holdings disclosed that its consolidated revenue for the first quarter of 2026 fell 26.1% year-on-year to 17.1 billion won. The operating loss increased to 9.9 billion won, up from a loss of 3.2 billion won in the same period last year, and a shift from an operating profit of 2.5 billion won in the previous quarter. A company representative explained, "The operating loss was influenced by factors such as losses from equity method investments." On a standalone basis, the company reported revenue of 12.9 billion won and an operating profit of 2.9 billion won. The standalone operating profit increased by over 50% compared to the same period last year and marked a return to profitability from the previous quarter. Com2us Holdings is strengthening its fanbase through collaboration events for 'Soul Strike.' Launched in January 2024, 'Soul Strike' has surpassed 4 million cumulative downloads globally. To ensure its long-term success, Com2us Holdings conducted a collaboration with the 'Zenonia' intellectual property in March. This year, the company plans to host various IP-related events and introduce a seasonal system to sustain the growth of 'Soul Strike.' In the second quarter, Com2us Holdings is set to release 'Star Sailor,' a collectible RPG featuring animated graphics and characters, in the global market. Additionally, a mobile puzzle game called 'Paw Pop Match,' which includes town-building and various mini-games, is also in the works. The company is preparing to expand into larger games and PC and console platforms. Four of the new titles scheduled for the second half of the year are being developed for consoles. 'Ares' will build anticipation through early previews to enhance user engagement and establish a fanbase. The game will undergo a complete overhaul to focus on single-player gameplay and emphasize action elements, with a global release planned for the second half of the year. The comic-style game 'Fading Echo' is targeting the Asian market on PC and console platforms. The Metroidvania-style action RPG 'Fatal Claw' is also set for global release in the second half of the year. 'Zenonia 1: Thread of Memory' and 'Lone Chef' are included in the lineup for PC and console platforms in the latter half of the year. Com2us Platform, a subsidiary, is driving growth in the cloud sector based on its game backend service 'Hive.' The company is particularly expanding its AI-based B2B business in collaboration with Tencent Cloud. A representative from Com2us Holdings stated, "We plan to strengthen our growth momentum by expanding our game business through the release of new titles across various genres and enhancing the technology business of our platform subsidiary."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 19:07:06

Trusstone Asset Management CEO Lee Sung-won: Capital Reallocation Key to Korea's Value Enhancement As South Korea's stock market approaches the KOSPI 8000 mark, the demand for improved corporate governance has intensified. Despite the government's value enhancement program gaining traction, some companies' closed management styles and low shareholder returns continue to hinder the Korean capital market. Lee Sung-won, CEO of Trusstone Asset Management, has been vocal about the need for corporate reform from the frontlines of the capital market. A former journalist turned CEO, Lee is recognized for setting new benchmarks in shareholder engagement in South Korea. In a recent interview, he emphasized the importance of 'authenticity' and 'capital efficiency.' He stated, "Activism is not just about boosting stock prices and exiting; it’s about guiding companies to allocate capital more productively, finding a path for both the company and its shareholders to thrive." - Your evaluations of Taekwang Industrial and KCC, two companies recently involved in shareholder activities, seem to differ significantly. What are the specific differences? "In a word, it boils down to the 'owner's perception.' Taekwang Industrial is a company that Trusstone has identified as having the most room for improvement, yet it continues to disappoint. Currently, the average price-to-book ratio (PBR) of Taekwang's listed affiliates is only 0.25. Taekwang itself has a PBR of 0.24, Daehan Synthetic Fiber is at 0.18, and Heungkuk Fire & Marine Insurance is at 0.33. This indicates that their stock prices are severely undervalued compared to their asset values. However, at this week’s shareholders' meeting, the company only passed a bylaw amendment regarding treasury shares, failing to present any concrete plans for share buybacks or value enhancement that shareholders had hoped for. The issue of board independence is particularly serious, as outside directors are being appointed in a circular manner among affiliates. Existing outside directors from Taekwang move to Daehan, and vice versa. Is this in line with the intent of the recent amendments to the Commercial Act, which stipulate the fiduciary duty of directors to shareholders? It is unacceptable for a major shareholder to provide generous dividends to unlisted companies while offering only 1-2% to listed companies." - On the other hand, you mentioned seeing 'hope' in KCC. Can you elaborate? "KCC has begun to actively embrace changes in the world. We have been demanding that KCC liquidate its stake in Samsung C&T, valued at approximately 6.888 trillion won, and conduct share buybacks. In response, KCC decided to split the buyback of 13.21% (1,174,300 shares) of its treasury shares, which account for 17.24% of its total shares, by September 2027. This is not just about the numbers; the communication has been positive. The company explained to us, 'We cannot sell now as Samsung C&T's stock price is low, but we will liquidate it for shareholder returns once the price recovers.' We understood their reasoning and made concessions. Ultimately, this case illustrates that the key to corporate change lies in how actively the board and owners accept changes in the world alongside institutional reforms." - You have consistently pointed out the low capital efficiency of Korean companies. Why is 'capital reallocation' urgent? "Currently, many Korean companies are accumulating cash or real estate instead of investing or returning profits to shareholders, despite generating substantial profits. This is toxic. When equity becomes too large, the return on equity (ROE) inevitably declines. A low ROE indicates that capital is not being used productively, leading to market discounts. Take Taekwang Industrial as an example. There are unofficial claims that its real estate value alone reaches 20 trillion won, yet its market capitalization is just over 1 trillion won. Not re-evaluating assets and merely sitting on land is akin to real estate speculation rather than corporate management. Therefore, we propose capital reallocation. Companies should sell unnecessary assets to invest in high-growth industries or optimize their capital size through share buybacks or dividends. This is the essence of productive finance that enhances corporate profitability and leads the entire capital market into a virtuous cycle. It’s not just a demand for 'give me money,' but a strategic dialogue about where to allocate capital for better corporate performance." - How do you respond to the perception of Trusstone Asset Management as 'hardline activism'? "I want to draw a clear line here. We are not speculative capital aiming for short-term profits and quick exits. How can we be considered hardline when we have invested in companies like Taekwang Industrial and BYC for over eight years, attempting sincere dialogue? Thus, I prefer the term 'shareholder engagement' over 'activism.' Public confrontations are merely a last resort when numerous private discussions are insincerely rejected. We aim to serve as long-term partners to improve governance. While shareholder activities have become more active recently, the actual size of funds executing activist strategies is only one-thirtieth of that in Japan. Without the financial power to secure voting rights, our influence diminishes. Ultimately, we must enhance our research capabilities to prove our returns and grow our fund size for true democratization." - What institutional improvements do you believe are necessary? "The most urgent need is to ensure the independence of the shareholders' meeting chair. Currently, most CEOs also serve as the chair, which is akin to a player also being the referee. We need to change the system so that the chair can be proposed by shareholders or appointed by an independent party approved by the court. Given the chair's significant authority over agenda setting and proceedings, they must be independent from major shareholders to ensure fair decision-making. Another point is the flexible application of the '5% rule.' It is excessive regulation to restrict voting rights by categorizing discussions about enhancing shareholder value, such as increasing dividends, as 'joint ownership.' We need to differentiate regulations between management issues like director appointments and general shareholder rights. Only when an environment is created where minority shareholders' voices can be genuinely reflected will the Korea discount be resolved, and value enhancement can be achieved."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:58:25

Trusstone Asset Management Aims to Evolve into Comprehensive Investment Firm Lee Sung-won, CEO of Trusstone Asset Management, is recognized as an expert in corporate governance and activism in the capital markets. However, his vision for Trusstone extends far beyond this reputation. He explains that the shareholder engagement activities known in the market represent only a fraction of the approximately 30 trillion won in assets managed by Trusstone. His broader vision is to transform Trusstone into a 'comprehensive asset management house.' Recently, Trusstone has experienced notable growth in its alternative investment sector. The firm has gained the trust of institutional investors by generating stable returns in specialized areas such as overseas social infrastructure investments and domestic renewable energy projects. "We are not just a company that engages in stockholder activities," Lee stated. "The reason large institutions, such as pension funds and insurance companies, choose us is ultimately due to our thorough research and risk management capabilities." The sharp corporate analysis demonstrated in shareholder engagement is also a foundation for accurately assessing asset values and maximizing returns in the alternative investment sector. He noted, "Our goal is to create a revenue structure that remains resilient against market fluctuations through a diverse business lineup." As a CEO with a background in journalism, Lee has chosen to maximize his strengths by collaborating with the latest technologies. He is an early adopter who regularly utilizes paid artificial intelligence (AI) models in his work. "Even in areas where one might feel like a non-expert, having AI allows for data-driven, precise decision-making," he said. "Such investments to enhance productivity are essential for management." Lee is embedding this smart management approach throughout the organization. He believes that Trusstone must lead by example in embracing change, especially when he is vocal about the shortcomings of companies resistant to transformation. "Trusstone Asset Management will become a leading asset management house in South Korea through a balanced portfolio that encompasses stocks, bonds, and alternative investments," he expressed. "By combining fundamental research with technological innovation, we aim to become the most trusted comprehensive asset management firm for investors."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:55:46

SK Innovation Reports $1.6 Billion Operating Profit in Q1 Amid Rising Oil Prices SK Innovation reported a return to profitability in the first quarter, driven by increased inventory-related profits amid soaring oil prices due to conflicts in the Middle East. In a disclosure on May 13, SK Innovation announced that it achieved revenues of 24.2 trillion won (approximately $18.3 billion) and an operating profit of 2.16 trillion won (about $1.6 billion) for the first quarter. These figures represent increases of 4.54 trillion won and 1.87 trillion won, respectively, compared to the previous quarter. Year-over-year, revenues rose by 3.19 trillion won, and the company returned to profitability. The improvement in first-quarter results was significantly influenced by the lagging effect between crude oil imports and petroleum product sales, as well as increased inventory-related profits. SK Innovation stated, "The operating profit of SK Energy, which operates in the refining sector, saw a substantial increase compared to the previous quarter due to the lagging effect of rising oil prices and increased inventory-related profits. However, these gains are reflected as accounting figures and may diminish or disappear in the event of falling oil prices in the future." The company revealed that approximately 60% of SK Energy's total operating profit of 1.28 trillion won (around $960 million) for the first quarter came from inventory-related profits, amounting to about 780 billion won (approximately $580 million). SK Energy's operating profit increased by 1.05 trillion won compared to the previous quarter, largely due to the surge in oil prices resulting from the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz amid regional conflicts. SK Geo Centric also returned to profitability in the first quarter, benefiting from inventory effects due to rising naphtha prices. The profitability of aromatic products improved due to scheduled maintenance of regional paraxylene facilities and the partial resumption of benzene exports. Despite a decline in margins due to rising oil prices, SK Enmove reported a 7.4 billion won increase in operating profit compared to the previous quarter, thanks to inventory effects. SK Earth On saw a 39 billion won increase in operating profit due to improved composite selling prices driven by rising oil and gas prices. The battery division continued to experience losses, with SK On reporting first-quarter revenues of 1.79 trillion won (approximately $1.35 billion) and an operating loss of 349.2 billion won (about $260 million). The company plans to enhance long-term profitability by stabilizing operations at its European production base and expanding orders for North American energy storage systems (ESS), anticipating favorable conditions from local production incentives and strengthened subsidies in Europe. ​​​​ Additionally, SK Incheon Petrochemicals reported revenues of 3.15 trillion won and an operating profit of 647.1 billion won; SK On Trading International reported revenues of 15.11 trillion won and an operating profit of 156 billion won; SK IE Technology reported revenues of 359 billion won and an operating loss of 732 billion won; and SK Innovation E&S reported revenues of 36.96 trillion won and an operating profit of 283.2 billion won. Looking ahead to the second quarter, SK Innovation plans to operate flexibly in response to global uncertainties stemming from the Middle East conflicts. The chemical industry will address oil price volatility risks through strategic inventory management and optimized marketing. Despite uncertainties from the Middle East conflicts, the lubricants business is expected to see improved spreads due to supply disruptions among competitors and raw material supply issues. With heightened interest in supply stability amid geopolitical risks, the company aims to secure profitability based on its differentiated competitiveness from multiple production bases. Seo Geon-ki, head of SK Innovation's finance division, stated, "With the expansion of global geopolitical risks, the volatility and uncertainty in the energy market are greater than ever. We will strive to secure stable profitability based on operational optimization and competitive business portfolio while continuing to play a responsible role in ensuring stable supply of domestic petroleum products and maintaining energy supply chains." * This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:50:59

Kakao Mobility Clarifies Nasdaq Listing Speculation, Exploring Various Investment Options Kakao Mobility has addressed speculation regarding its potential listing on the Nasdaq, stating it is currently in discussions with multiple potential investors and buyers about various options. On May 13, Kakao Mobility responded to reports suggesting it is undergoing a re-audit in preparation for a U.S. initial public offering (IPO), clarifying that it is exploring a range of options beyond just an IPO or a one-time sale. Earlier, Herald Economy reported that Kakao Mobility is conducting a three-year re-audit for 2023 to 2025 and had signed an external audit contract with Anjin Accounting Corporation in April. This led to interpretations in the market that the company is preparing for a Nasdaq listing. In response, Kakao Mobility emphasized that the selection of the accounting firm is part of a process to evaluate various possibilities, stating, "To view this as a push for a specific IPO direction is an over-interpretation." Industry analysts suggest that these discussions are linked to the exit strategy of Texas Pacific Group (TPG), a financial investor that has invested approximately 1 trillion won in Kakao Mobility since 2017. With the IPO process delayed for an extended period, TPG is reportedly considering various exit strategies, including attracting new investors or selling shares, and discussions regarding transaction structures with overseas investors are also underway.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:49:25

Ildong Foodis Launches High-Myun Products at Musinsa Megastore in Seongsu Ildong Foodis announced on May 13 that it has begun selling its High-Myun products at the Musinsa Megastore in Seongsu, targeting the 2030 demographic and foreign tourists as part of its strategy to expand its offline presence. The Musinsa Megastore in Seongsu is a multi-level shopping space spanning approximately 2,000 square meters, featuring fashion and beauty brands alongside experiential content areas and food and beverage facilities. Ildong Foodis is showcasing a total of 11 products, including eight varieties of High-Myun Protein Balance Active and three types of energy gel products called High-Myun Amino Poten, located in the 'Musinsa Beauty' section on the second floor of the megastore. High-Myun Active is a high-protein beverage containing 20 to 22 grams of protein per pack, featuring essential amino acids BCAA (leucine, isoleucine, valine) at 4,500 mg and L-carnitine. The accompanying High-Myun Amino Poten is a high-amino acid energy gel product designed for immediate energy replenishment, available in three lines tailored for specific energy needs. It was noted in a survey by the Korea Consumer Agency last year as the only product designed primarily with amino acids as the main ingredient. Ildong Foodis plans to enhance product experience opportunities for consumers visiting the Seongsu area and increase brand awareness through this launch. An Ildong Foodis representative stated, "We hope that consumers will have the opportunity to experience High-Myun products directly at the Musinsa Megastore in Seongsu. We also plan to continue expanding our offline sales channels to increase consumer touchpoints." According to Musinsa, the megastore, which opened in April, recorded 42,000 visitors during its first weekend from April 24 to 26, with sales totaling 900 million won during that period.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:48:00

CJ Foodville Launches Cold Noodle Menu with Regional Delicacies CJ Foodville's Jeil Jemyunso is kicking off the summer season by launching its cold noodle menu. This year, the restaurant has expanded its offerings to include regional delicacies as side dishes. On May 13, Jeil Jemyunso announced that it will begin selling its summer-exclusive 'Jeil Mul Naengmyeon' (cold noodles in broth) and 'Jeil Bibim Naengmyeon' (spicy cold noodles) starting May 14. 'Jeil Mul Naengmyeon' features chewy noodles served in a chilled broth with ice flakes, while 'Jeil Bibim Naengmyeon' is designed to stimulate the palate with a sweet and tangy special sauce. This year, the restaurant has also introduced regionally inspired side dishes to complement the cold noodles. The 'Chungcheong-style Yukjeon' is a pork dish enhanced with a special sauce, which has received positive feedback since its initial launch at the Yeouido IFC Mall. It will now be available at all locations this season. Additionally, 'Sokcho-style Myungtae Hoe-muchim' will be offered, featuring pollock mixed with a spicy and tangy seasoning, enhancing the flavors of the cold noodles. Jeil Jemyunso has also created set options for customers to enjoy the cold noodles along with the side dishes. When ordering cold noodles, customers can add Chungcheong-style Yukjeon for 4,000 won or Sokcho-style Myungtae Hoe-muchim for 5,000 won to create a set meal. Moreover, the restaurant has combined these new offerings with existing Korean dishes such as Yangji Suyuk (brisket) and Hangjeong Suyuk (pork jowl) to provide a complete summer dining experience. A CJ Foodville representative stated, "We planned this year's cold noodle menu with a focus on regional characteristics, which are consistently popular every summer. Customers will be able to enjoy a variety of combinations to savor summer delicacies according to their preferences."* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:43:57

Samyang Foods Reports Record Q1 Operating Profit of 177.1 Billion Won Driven by Global Demand for Buldak Samyang Foods has once again achieved record quarterly results, fueled by strong overseas sales. The demand for the Buldak brand continues to thrive in global markets, supported by increased production capacity and favorable exchange rates, leading to improvements in both revenue and profitability. On May 13, Samyang Foods announced that its consolidated revenue for the first quarter reached 714.4 billion won, with an operating profit of 177.1 billion won. This marks a 35% increase in revenue and a 32% rise in operating profit compared to the same period last year. The overall performance was driven by international business. First-quarter overseas sales amounted to 585 billion won, a 38% increase from the previous year, accounting for over 80% of total revenue. Notably, the European market saw significant growth. All overseas subsidiaries recorded double-digit growth rates, with European sales reaching 77 billion won, up 215% year-on-year. This surge is attributed to the expansion of local distribution networks following the establishment of a subsidiary in the UK and increased presence in mainstream channels in major Western European countries such as Germany and the Netherlands. Growth trends also continued in the company’s largest export markets, the United States and China. Revenue from the U.S. subsidiary rose by 37% to 185 billion won, while the Chinese subsidiary reported a 36% increase, reaching 171 billion won. Samyang Foods attributed its improved performance to increased supply capacity due to higher operational rates at its Miryang Plant 2. The increased production has helped meet the rising demand for Buldak products, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, contributing to overseas sales growth. Profitability remained stable, with the operating profit margin for the first quarter at 24.8%, maintaining over 20% for five consecutive quarters. A company representative stated, "Despite external uncertainties, this performance reaffirms the competitiveness and growth sustainability of the Buldak brand. We plan to focus on strengthening our global management system and expanding our production and sales infrastructure this year." Meanwhile, to meet the growing global demand, Samyang Foods is establishing its first overseas production facility in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, China. The plant, with a total investment of 207.2 billion won, is expected to be completed by January 2027. It will feature eight production lines, capable of producing an additional 1.13 billion units of Buldak Bokkeummyeon annually once operational.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:42:23

Kim Min-ha's 'Student Teaching' Challenges Conventional Cinema "It's romantic. The lighting, temperature, humidity..." This is a remark made by a participant on a variety show. It suggests that elements like location, weather, and physical condition all contribute to creating an 'atmosphere.' The same applies to film. The mood of the day and personal experiences can serve as 'evaluation criteria' for a movie. In this way, 'Choi's Review' is a segment that introduces films to audiences through the author's experiences and perspectives, aiming for a more relaxed and everyday approach. (Editor’s Note) There is no middle ground. Viewers either passionately love or completely fail to understand Kim Min-ha's films. From the short film 'Burger Song Challenge' to the feature debut 'Amoeba Girls and School Ghost Stories: Founding Day' and now 'Student Teaching,' Kim's work consistently sparks intense 'taste battles.' The director shows no willingness to compromise on her unique and charming rhythm. The story follows Eun-kyung (played by Han Sun-hwa), a 'MZ student teacher' who returns to her alma mater with lofty ambitions and a sense of duty. Despite her pure passion for teaching, she faces the harsh realities of a crumbling educational system. One day, she encounters three girls from a mysterious black magic club, 'Kuroi Sora'—Aoi (Hong Ye-ji), Riko (Lee Yeo-reum), and Haruka (Lee Hwa-won)—and senses they are involved in a troubling incident. It is revealed that these top students, who never miss a national mock exam, have their souls bound to a yokai in exchange for answers. To protect her precarious students, Eun-kyung willingly plunges into a deadly mock exam orchestrated by the 'College Entrance Exam Ghost.' 'Student Teaching' twists the conventions of horror to fuel its comedy. While continuing the trajectory of her previous works, it collides the tropes of horror with the rhythm of comedy, subverting even its roughness into a meticulously crafted aesthetic. Kim Min-ha's unique signature lies in her ability to push excess not as a flaw but as a distinctive language. She cleverly navigates production budget limitations with inventive directorial choices, utilizing pixel art and animation to create the film's hip and kitschy texture. The characters, who exist outside of reality, and the deliberately rough dialogue draw the audience into this bizarre world from the very beginning. Accepting Kim's 'universe' offers viewers a liberating experience amidst the chaotic and crude elements. Under the term 'horribly lovely,' the film plays with horror and charm, yet its message is heavier than in previous works. As Kim stated, "I wanted to create a film that is funny but not foolish," the comedy's exterior conceals a critique of contemporary issues. It sharply reflects the shadows of a crumbling educational system and the expanding private tutoring market, alongside the historical context of the 'Seodang Hunt' during the Japanese colonial period, aimed at undermining Korean education. The previous film, 'Amoeba Girls and School Ghost Stories: Founding Day,' attracted only 30,000 viewers, making a sequel unlikely. However, the audience breathed new life into this niche world. The film gained traction on OTT platforms as a 'Girls Night Movie,' forming a fanbase that spurred further production. 'Student Teaching' is essentially a response summoned by the audience. This sentiment resonates throughout the film. The portrayal of marginalized girls supporting each other mirrors how audiences have sustained this film series. The journey of these incomplete beings embracing one another as they navigate societal absurdities offers a comforting presence that surpasses hasty admonitions. The chemistry among the cast is also noteworthy. Han Sun-hwa, as Eun-kyung, effectively anchors the narrative. Having established a unique presence through dramas like 'Drinking City Women' and films such as 'First Ride' and 'Pilot,' she faithfully embodies Kim Min-ha's vision, creating a solid bridge between the audience and the work. The trio from 'Kuroi Sora'—Hong Ye-ji, Lee Yeo-reum, and Lee Hwa-won—along with Yoo Seon-ho as 'Idainashi,' also enhance audience immersion with their excellent character portrayals. 'Student Teaching' may not satisfy everyone. However, it relentlessly pursues its unique taste and ultimately garners a response. This stubborn sincerity becomes a gentle black magic that willingly offers companionship to all incomplete beings traversing their own tunnels. The film is set for a solo release at CGV on May 13, with a runtime of 94 minutes and a rating of 12 and older.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:38:59

Yoon Suk Yeol Requests Recusal of Judges in Rebellion Case Yoon Suk Yeol, who was sentenced to life in prison for his role in a rebellion during the December 3 emergency martial law, has filed a request for the recusal of judges ahead of his appeal hearing. On May 13, Yoon's legal team announced in a statement to reporters that they had submitted a recusal request to the Seoul High Court concerning the three judges of the 12-1 Criminal Division. The panel includes judges Lee Seung-cheol, Jo Jin-goo, and Kim Min-ah, who are set to preside over Yoon's appeal regarding charges of being a rebellion leader. A recusal request is a legal procedure under criminal law that allows either the prosecution or the defense to seek the exclusion of a judge if there is a concern about unfairness in the trial. Yoon's team argued that they cannot expect a fair trial from judges who have publicly expressed a presumption of guilt. Previously, on May 7, the 12-1 Criminal Division sentenced former Prime Minister Han Duck-soo to 15 years in prison for his involvement in rebellion-related duties. Yoon's lawyers claimed that during Han's appeal, the judges revealed a presumption of guilt regarding Yoon's charges, which they argue constitutes grounds for recusal due to the potential for an unfair trial. They specifically noted that the judges used concrete expressions acknowledging Yoon's alleged involvement in Han's case, which they believe prejudiced the outcome of the trial. Furthermore, they pointed out that some media outlets reported after Han's sentencing that a guilty verdict for Yoon's rebellion charges was likely, stating that concerns about an unfair trial are reasonable from an average person's perspective. Yoon is scheduled for the first hearing in his appeal on May 14. He was convicted of inciting a rebellion aimed at undermining the constitution by conspiring with former Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun to declare a state of emergency on December 3. The trial will also include seven military and police leaders charged with involvement in the rebellion alongside Yoon and Kim.* This article has been translated by AI. 2026-05-13 18:36:51