Prosecutors seek tighter bail for Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon amid 'active' public life

The legal battle surrounding Pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon continues to unfold, with prosecutors now seeking to tighten the bail conditions imposed upon him. Jeon, who was released on bail after being indicted for allegedly instigating a riot at the Seoul Western District Court, has been actively participating in public events and making political statements, which prosecutors argue contravene the spirit of his bail.

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We must strictly warn the defendant or the court should review the modification of bail conditions by its authority.

Prosecutors have formally requested the court to impose stricter measures, such as prohibiting attendance at rallies that could influence ongoing trials and enforcing a more rigorous residential restriction. They contend that Jeon's "active external activities" since his release undermine the court's intention in granting bail, which considered his health issues and need for specialized treatment. Furthermore, his recent legal challenge to a travel ban, arguing a need to visit the United States, is seen by the prosecution as a clear violation of his bail terms, particularly the restriction on leaving his residence.

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This behavior has made the purpose of granting bail, considering the difficulty of receiving specialized treatment due to mobility issues, meaningless.

Jeon's legal team has vehemently opposed these requests, labeling them as an infringement on basic human rights and freedom of assembly. They have also accused the media and certain politicians of exerting undue pressure on the court and prosecution to revoke his bail. This defense highlights a broader concern about the potential for external influence in judicial proceedings, particularly in high-profile cases involving controversial figures.

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It is incomprehensible why the basic human rights and freedom of assembly are being further restricted.

The court, while not immediately ruling on the prosecution's request, acknowledged that bail conditions are subject to change. The judge noted that the outcome of Jeon's lawsuit challenging the travel ban could necessitate a review of his bail, particularly concerning the risk of flight. The court also indicated that Jeon's public statements could be re-evaluated in relation to potential legal violations, which might further impact the bail conditions. The next hearing is scheduled for July 10, where these matters will likely be further addressed.

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The media is creating public opinion for the revocation of bail, and some politicians are exerting external pressure on the prosecution and the court.