Former South Korea President, Park Geun Hye, has received her final sentencing after being convicted of abusing power and coercion.
The prosecutors asked for a 30-year jail sentence and $110 million in fines. After a live broadcast of her final trial, the court sentenced her to 24 years in prison and 18 billion won (~$17 million USD) fine. It was the first time in Korean history for a court sentencing to be broadcast live all over the nation.
“In order to prevent future Presidents from abusing their power and disrupting the national government, we cannot be helped but hold the former President Park Geun Hye responsible for her crimes.”
— Seoul Central District Court Criminal
The courts found her guilty on charges that included bribery, abuse of power, and coercion – all solicited by her long-time friend Choi Soon Sil. Choi Soon Sil was found guilty of corruption, influence-peddling, and abuse of power back in February, where she was sentenced to 20 years in jail.
“Park Geun Hye and Choi Soon Sil must be held responsible for the disruption of the national order and the disintegration of the constitutional monarchy.”
— Seoul Central District Court Criminal
Together, Park Geun Hye and Choi Soon Sil caused a revolution in Korean politics after they dominated the country’s economy by corrupting government affairs and business conglomerates for their own benefit. Despite her actions, Park Geun Hye continued to show no sign of remorse for her misdoings.
“Despite her actions, Park Geun Hye refuses to admit to her crimes and does not reflect or show signs of regret. Instead, she claims she was deceived by Choi Soon Sil and places the fault into other parties.”
— Seoul Central District Court Criminal
Park Geun Hye had also continued to use every excuse to push her court dates, refusing to show up to court repeatedly. She has been in hiding since her impeachment and refused once again to appear in court for her final sentencing. Her two lawyers stood in court as her representatives, claiming that the former President was unable to attend due to her health issues.
“It is difficult for [Park Geun Hye] to attend her final sentencing because of her current health.”
— Park Geun Hye’s Representatives
The final sentencing was held for nearly 2 hours, but she still has more charges left for sentencing. The first trial for her case regarding National Intelligence Service’s Special Activity has just begun. Depending on the speed of the trial, the two cases may be merged in the appeal.