Jeong Yi-han, accused of staging 'terror attack,' had drink thrown by acquaintance

Police are investigating a man who threw a drink at Jeong Yi-han, a former Reform Party candidate for Busan mayor, during a local election campaign event. Authorities are leaning towards the possibility that the incident was a staged "self-inflicted" act and are closely examining the relationship between the suspect and the candidate.

Jeong, who ran for Busan mayor under the Reform Party, was campaigning on April 27 when a 30-year-old man, identified only as 'A,' threw a beverage at him. According to Jeong's campaign team, the assailant shouted insults at Jeong during the act. Jeong lost his balance and fell while trying to avoid the drink and was taken to the emergency room.

Police arrested 'A' on charges related to violating the Public Official Election Act but a court later dismissed the request for his detention, citing insufficient grounds. Jeong himself visited 'A' in detention and submitted a petition for leniency.

'A' is known to have a personal connection with Jeong, having previously worked as a gym trainer in Busan. Police have confirmed that 'A' and Jeong had spoken on the phone before the incident. The investigation is focusing on this personal relationship and the potential for a staged event, which could involve charges of false reporting and obstruction of public service against Jeong.

Following the incident, Jeong resigned from politics and left the Reform Party. The party's leader, Lee Jun-seok, stated that if the allegations are true, severe civil and criminal penalties would be pursued against Jeong.