Oh Se-hoon ahead of appellate ruling: “The time of truth is approaching”

[Financial News] Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon said the time of truth was approaching ahead of the appellate ruling, scheduled for the 23rd, in the case involving allegations that he arranged for someone else to pay the opinion-poll costs on his behalf after receiving the results from Myung Tae-gyun.
Asked about the outlook for the appellate ruling and the future of city administration at a press conference at Seoul City Hall on the 7th marking the 100th day of the ninth popularly elected term, Mayor Oh said, “I sincerely regret that, whatever the circumstances, I have found myself facing a trial like this, and I apologize to the many citizens.”
He added, “A lot of new evidence that was not uncovered at the first trial has been submitted on appeal,” and said, “I am waiting for the outcome with humility.”
He also expressed confidence in the ruling.
Mayor Oh said, “The truth always comes to light,” adding, “I think the time is approaching when the prosecution and the special counsel, who have conducted an excessive investigation, will have to take responsibility once the truth comes to light.” He continued, “In short, I will conclude my answer by saying, ‘The time of truth is approaching.’”
Meanwhile, Mayor Oh was indicted on charges of receiving opinion poll results from political broker Myung Tae-gyun ahead of the April 7, 2021 Seoul mayoral by-election and having his supporter, businessman Kim Han-jung, pay the costs on his behalf.
The first-trial court found him guilty in connection with five of the 10 opinion polls and the arrangement for someone else to pay the 21 million won in costs for them. It sentenced Mayor Oh to a fine of 10 million won and ordered an additional collection of 21 million won.
On appeal, Mayor Oh’s side is arguing for acquittal, presenting as new evidence recordings of calls between Myung and Kim that were not submitted at the first trial. At the appellate court’s final hearing, held on the 2nd, the special counsel sought a prison term of one year and six months and an additional collection of 33 million won for Mayor Oh.
The appellate ruling will be handed down at 2 p.m. on the 23rd at the Seoul High Court.

[email protected] Lee Seol-young Reporter