Ex-journalist accuses prosecutors of false claims about president's father

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Legal Actions Against Former Journalist Over Alleged Defamation

A former journalist in his 60s has been referred to prosecutors following allegations of spreading false information about the late Lee Kyung-hee, the father of President Lee Jae-myung. The individual, identified as Mr. A, is accused of publishing a book that contained misleading claims and further disseminating these allegations on a YouTube program.

The Andong Police Station in North Gyeongsang Province announced on the 26th that they had sent Mr. A to prosecutors for charges including defamation of the deceased and violations of the Public Official Election Act. According to the police, Mr. A released a book in August of last year that claimed the president’s father, who was then the leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, had embezzled funds from leaf tobacco purchase payments and fled in the middle of the night. Additionally, he is alleged to have made similar statements as a panelist on a YouTube current affairs program in October of the same year.

During the investigation, Mr. A failed to provide any evidence to support his claims. The police concluded that his actions constituted defamation of the deceased through the dissemination of false information and also violated the Public Official Election Act. As a result, the case was forwarded to prosecutors for further legal proceedings.

This incident comes after the police launched an investigation in April following a complaint filed by the president’s older brother against Mr. A on related charges. The ongoing legal process highlights the seriousness of the allegations and the potential consequences for those who spread false information about public figures, especially when such claims involve historical or political matters.

Key Points of the Case

• Accusations: Mr. A is accused of defaming the late Lee Kyung-hee and violating the Public Official Election Act.
• Alleged Actions: He published a book with false claims and repeated them on a YouTube program.
• Investigation Findings: No evidence was provided to support the allegations, leading to the conclusion of defamation.
• Legal Consequences: The case has been referred to prosecutors, indicating potential legal action against Mr. A.

Background on the Accused

Mr. A, a former journalist, is now facing serious legal repercussions for his actions. His career in journalism suggests he was previously involved in reporting on public affairs, but this case marks a significant shift into controversial territory. The allegations against him are not only about the content of the book but also about the platform used to spread the claims—YouTube, which is widely accessible and can reach a large audience.

The accusations against Mr. A raise important questions about the responsibility of individuals in the media, particularly when it comes to the accuracy of information and the impact of such claims on public perception. Given the sensitivity of the subject matter, involving a prominent political figure, the case has drawn attention from various sectors of society.

Implications of the Case

The referral of Mr. A to prosecutors underscores the importance of verifying information before it is disseminated, especially in the context of public figures. It also highlights the legal framework in place to address defamation and misinformation. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar situations are handled in the future.

Furthermore, the involvement of the president’s family adds another layer of complexity to the case. The family's decision to file a complaint demonstrates their concern over the potential damage to the legacy of their late relative. This case serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between freedom of expression and the protection of an individual's reputation, especially after their passing.

Conclusion

As the legal process continues, the case against Mr. A will likely be closely watched by both the media and the public. The resolution of this matter could have broader implications for how false information is addressed in the media and the legal system. It also emphasizes the need for responsible journalism and the importance of fact-checking in an era where information spreads rapidly across digital platforms.