Judge who convicted ex-first lady Kim Keon-hee found dead

The sudden death of Judge Shin Jong-o, the presiding judge in the appeals trial of former First Lady Kim Keon-hee, has sent shockwaves through South Korea's judiciary and public. As reported by The Hankyoreh, Judge Shin's body was discovered on the grounds of the Seoul High Court. This tragic event follows closely on the heels of his significant ruling on April 28, where he handed down a four-year prison sentence and a 50 million won fine to Kim Keon-hee.

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Judge Shin Jong-o had raised Kim Keon-hee’s sentence to four years in prison, up from the 20 months handed to her by the lower court in January.

Judge Shin's appellate court decision was pivotal. He overturned earlier acquittals on charges of stock manipulation and bribery, including the acceptance of a Chanel handbag, thereby significantly increasing the former First Lady's sentence from the lower court's 20 months. His judicial career, marked by appointments across various courts since passing the bar in 1995, culminated in this high-profile case at the Seoul High Court, where he assumed his position only in February.

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The appellate court sentenced her to four years in prison and a fine of 50 million won.

From our perspective, the circumstances surrounding Judge Shin's death are deeply concerning and demand thorough investigation. While the article refrains from speculation, the timing—so soon after delivering a verdict in such a politically charged case—is undeniably sensitive. The international media might focus on the legal aspects of Kim Keon-hee's conviction, but for us, the focus must also be on ensuring the integrity of the judicial process and understanding the factors that led to this tragic outcome. The judiciary is a pillar of our society, and any event that casts doubt upon its functioning, or the safety of its members, warrants the utmost attention and transparency.

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Sources with the judiciary and the police told the Hankyoreh on Wednesday that Judge Shin Jong-o’s body was found on the grounds of the Seoul High Court at 1 am that day.