Broadcast personality Yoo Young-jae acknowledges wrongdoing in appeal trial for sexual assault charges

Broadcast personality Yoo Young-jae is on trial for allegedly sexually assaulting actress Sunwoo Eun-sook's older sister. During the appeals trial, he acknowledged his mistakes and pleaded for leniency.

On the 16th, the Suwon High Court's Criminal Division 2-3 held its first hearing and sentencing trial for Yoo, who was indicted for violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes.

During the trial, Yoo's side admitted to all charges. His lawyer stated in the closing argument, "The defendant has been imprisoned for the first time due to this case and has realized the gravity of the crime, living with remorse while apologizing to the victim."

Furthermore, the lawyer requested leniency, saying, "We will strive for the victim's recovery and ask for consideration given that the defendant has clear social ties and poses no risk of reoffending."

In his final statement, Yoo said, "I bow my head and sincerely apologize to the victim who is suffering. I have tried to strictly adhere to broadcasting ethics, but I reflect on how I ended up in this situation due to a moment of poor judgment."

The prosecution requested that the court dismiss Yoo's appeal and uphold the original sentence. The prosecution sought a five-year prison term in the first trial; however, the first trial court sentenced Yoo to two years and six months and ordered immediate imprisonment.

At that time, the court stated, "The defendant and his lawyer claim there was no sexual assault, but the victim's testimony is consistent and does not contain any irrational or contradictory parts." The court also noted, "Furthermore, the feelings expressed by the victim during the crime are difficult to regard as false testimony, confirming all of Yoo's crimes."

The court is scheduled to issue a final ruling on this case on June 11.

Image source: youtube 'dj Yoo Young-jae tv Yoo Young-jae Radio'