'Cool Marine' Song Ho-jong Faces Trial for Alleged Absence from National Assembly Hearing

The legal proceedings against Song Ho-jong, a figure associated with the 'Cool Marine' chat group, have reached a critical juncture with his first trial commencing on January 17th. Song is accused of failing to attend a National Assembly hearing without a valid excuse, an offense for which he had already been issued a summary order imposing a 5 million won fine. His subsequent request for a formal trial has now brought the case before the court, highlighting the seriousness with which such absences are treated in the context of legislative oversight.

“

Song Ho-jong, who was designated as a witness for the 'Cool Marine' group chat members, was summoned as a witness to the National Assembly's Administrative Safety Committee's hearing on 'Allegations of External Pressure in Customs Drug Investigations' in August 2024, but failed to attend without justifiable reason and was reported to the National Assembly in September of the same year.

Song Ho-jong's summons to the hearing was reportedly in connection with allegations of lobbying efforts aimed at protecting former Marine Corps Division 1 Commander Im Seong-geun. This connection places the case within the sensitive political climate surrounding the Chae Sang-byeong special counsel investigation, a matter that has garnered significant public attention and scrutiny. The National Assembly's Administrative Safety Committee had designated Song as a witness to probe alleged external pressures in customs drug investigations, making his absence a direct impediment to the legislative process.

“

The prosecution indicted Song in November last year with a summary indictment for a fine of 5 million won.

The prosecution initially sought a summary indictment, proposing a 5 million won fine, a procedure typically reserved for less severe offenses. However, Song's decision to appeal this decision and pursue a formal trial suggests a desire to contest the charges more directly or perhaps to present mitigating circumstances. The upcoming trial will likely delve into the specifics of his absence and the validity of any reasons provided, potentially shedding further light on the alleged lobbying activities and the broader implications for accountability within the military and government.

“

The court also issued a summary order with the same penalty as the prosecution in January of this year. Song requested a formal trial, leading to the scheduling of the trial date.