Lee Hwa-young, former Vice Governor of Gyeonggi Province, received a four-month prison sentence for perjury related to allegations of a lavish “salmon party” funded with public money. The Suwon District Court found Lee guilty of falsely testifying before the National Assembly regarding the event and his involvement. However, he was acquitted of charges related to violating the Public Official Election Act and abuse of power. The court determined insufficient evidence supported claims Lee used his position to unfairly benefit from the alleged misuse of funds. This case centered on accusations that Lee hosted a costly drinking party featuring salmon and other expensive items, using funds intended for peace initiatives. The trial lasted an exceptionally long period, marking the longest such case involving a public official in South Korean history. Prosecutors had sought a much harsher sentence, but the court’s decision reflects a partial rejection of their claims.
