Ruling party demands response after lawmaker Roh Woong-rae acquitted in second trial

South Korea's ruling People Power Party has strongly criticized the appeals court's decision to acquit lawmaker Roh Woong-rae, demanding a response from Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon. The party views the acquittal as a failure of the justice system and seeks clarification on the legal reasoning.

Roh Woong-rae, a member of the opposition Democratic Party, had been indicted on charges of receiving political funds through illegal channels. The initial trial found him guilty, but the Seoul High Court overturned this verdict in its second trial, acquitting him. The ruling party argues that this outcome is unacceptable and puts pressure on the Justice Ministry to address the situation.

Justice Minister Han Dong-hoon offered his perspective, suggesting that the acquittal was not a complete exoneration but rather based on the specific finding that no actual money changed hands. This implies that while the formal charge might not have been met, the underlying circumstances could still be viewed critically. His statement aims to temper the narrative around the acquittal and maintain a degree of accountability.

The People Power Party's demand for a response from Han Dong-hoon underscores the political sensitivity surrounding the case. The party seeks to hold the opposition accountable and potentially use the legal outcome to its political advantage, while the Justice Minister attempts to provide a nuanced explanation of the court's decision.

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It seems the acquittal was granted because no actual money was received, not because the charges were entirely unfounded.