Former Korean President Lee Myung‑bak Plans Appeal
Lee Myung‑bak, 76, is preparing to challenge a court ruling that sentenced him to 15 years behind bars for corruption.* His lawyer, Kang Hoon, confirmed last Friday (Oct 12) that Lee will appeal every conviction from the first trial.
What Went Wrong
Bribery & Embezzlement – Lee was found to be the real owner of DAS, a shifty auto‑parts firm he claimed belonged to his brother.
Shanghai Slush Fund – He used DAS to stash roughly ₩24 billion (about S$15.8 million) in a secret kitty.
Samsung Deal – Lee took nearly ₩6 billion from Samsung Electronics in exchange for a presidential pardon that helped the company’s chairman dodge a tax‑evasion sentence.
The Seoul Central District Court also slapped a fine of 13 billion won on him.
A Pattern in Korea
South Korean presidents often end up in prison after their rule fades. Every living former president has been convicted of a crime, and the trend continues with Lee joining the list.
Park Geun‑hye, his predecessor, got 25 years and millions in fines for bribery and abuse of power.
She was ousted last year after a massive corruption scandal sparked nationwide protests.
Lee’s Next Move
Lee has decided to fight back. “All convictions from the first trial are up for appeal,” Kang said to Yonhap. Whether the courts will reverse the verdict remains to be seen, but the ex-president is set to take the legal fight to the next round.
