Gangwon Education Chief Shin Gyeong-ho gets suspended sentence again in bribery case

The Gangwon Province Education Superintendent, Shin Gyeong-ho, has again been handed a suspended prison sentence on appeal for charges including pre-emptive bribery, a ruling that disqualifies him from holding public office.

The Chuncheon Branch of the Seoul High Court upheld the original sentence of 10 months imprisonment, suspended for two years, and ordered the confiscation of approximately 5.73 million won (around $4,100 USD) in cash and resort accommodation vouchers. This decision effectively dashes Shin's hopes of re-election and confirms the initial verdict against him.

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Acts of violating election law are crimes that undermine the values of democracy by obstructing the people's free choice and infringing upon the transparency and fairness of fair elections.

Shin's defense team argued that evidence was illegally collected and that he did not conspire with a former spokesperson, identified as Lee, who allegedly acted alone. However, the court found ample evidence of collusion. Key factors included Lee's initial contact with a former teacher, identified as Han, mentioning support for Shin's candidacy, the relationship between Lee and Han, Han's circumstances, and Shin's awareness of these factors. The court also cited Shin's own statements to Han, such as "don't worry" and "there will be good news," along with inquiries about desired positions after the election, as proof of his intent to offer an education-related post.

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Given that you ran for election to select an education superintendent who requires a high level of integrity, you conspired with Lee to promise benefits to Han and received political funds and bribes from Han, making the crime very serious.

The court strongly criticized Shin's actions, stating that election law violations undermine democratic values by obstructing free choice and compromising the fairness of elections. The judges emphasized the gravity of his offense, given the high level of integrity expected of an education superintendent, and noted that he conspired to promise benefits to Han in exchange for political funds and bribes. While acknowledging that Shin eventually returned the cash and that this was his first offense, the court deemed the original sentence appropriate.

Shin was indicted in June 2023 on charges of violating the education self-governance act by establishing an illegal campaign organization and pre-emptive bribery for allegedly receiving money in exchange for promising public appointments or participation in government contracts after his election. The court acquitted him on four other bribery charges. Shin, who belongs to the conservative faction, won the Gangwon education chief position in the June 2022 local elections but has faced calls for resignation since his indictment.

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It can be sufficiently recognized that Lee and Shin Gyeong-ho conspired in relation to political funds and bribery, considering Lee's role and the content of the conversation in initially connecting Lee and Han.