Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon, who was charged with receiving polling results from political broker Myung Tae-kyun and having the costs covered by a supporter, expressed gratitude to the citizens of Seoul after being acquitted in an appeals court ruling.
After the court's decision on October 23 regarding the political funding law violation case, Mayor Oh stated, "First, I sincerely apologize to the public. I should have been more cautious in my public duties, and I feel truly sorry for having to appear in court." He added, "I will strive to conduct myself more perfectly in the future."
He continued, "I held an election while the trial was ongoing, and I am genuinely grateful to the citizens of Seoul for believing in my innocence and voting for me to serve as mayor again. I will work even harder to repay the trust and insight of the citizens."
Oh also acknowledged the support he received during the trial, saying, "Even while I was under suspicion, many citizens continued to trust me and encouraged me with hope and courage. Thanks to them, I was able to endure and work while facing the trial. I am truly thankful." He became emotional while sharing his thoughts on the verdict.
The Seoul High Court's Criminal Division 7, led by Judge Koo Hoe-geun, overturned the original ruling that imposed a fine of 10 million won and a forfeiture of 21 million won on Mayor Oh, declaring him not guilty. Businessman Kim Han-jeong and former Seoul Deputy Mayor Kang Cheol-won, who were also tried in the case, were similarly acquitted.
Oh was indicted in December of last year for allegedly receiving polling results from Myung on ten occasions and having Kim cover the costs of 33 million won ahead of the April 7, 2021, Seoul mayoral by-election.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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