Dismissal of Bench Warrant for Son Hyo-sook
The bench warrant for Son Hyo-sook, the representative of the conservative-leaning group ‘Libakschool,’ has been dismissed. The case involves allegations that she manipulated public opinion through comments ahead of last year’s presidential election. This marks the end of a two-month legal process following the initial rejection of the bench warrant by the police in September.
Presiding Judge Jeong Jae-wook of the Seoul Central District Court’s warrant review division, who is handling the Public Official Election Act violation case against Son, conducted a warrant review hearing on the afternoon of the 6th. During this session, the bench warrant was dismissed. Judge Jeong stated, “It is difficult to conclude there is a risk of evidence destruction or flight.” He further explained, “In the existing charges, objective facts are generally acknowledged, with disputes primarily centered on evaluative aspects,” and added, “The additional charges requested after the first application are recognized.”
This indicates that while the factual basis of the case is admitted, there remains a legal debate over whether the actions constitute opinion manipulation. Judge Jeong also noted, “Communications with related parties after the first request do not impact the establishment of the crime,” and concluded that the grounds for detention were insufficiently substantiated. His decision considered secured evidence, attendance and demeanor during investigations, and family and social ties.
Allegations Against Son Hyo-sook
Son is accused of recruiting and operating a comment team called ‘Jasongun, the Free Finger Army’ in May ahead of the election and engaging in comment manipulation. The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Cyber Investigation Unit raided Libakschool’s office in June, restricted Son’s overseas travel, and summoned her for questioning in July. The police applied for a bench warrant for Son in September, but Presiding Judge Park Jeong-ho of the Seoul Central District Court’s warrant review division stated, “Grounds for detention, including concerns about evidence destruction, are insufficiently substantiated.”
Background on Libakschool
Libakschool, a history education group established in June 2017, is named after former Presidents Rhee Syng-man and Park Chung-hee. Its official name is ‘Korean History Guardians.’ Son is also known to have signed a business agreement with Seoul National University of Education under the name ‘Korean Nulbom Education Federation’ and dispatched Libakschool-affiliated instructors to 10 elementary schools in Seoul for after-school programs.
Regarding these activities, Son is under investigation by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Anti-Corruption Investigation Unit on charges including obstruction of public duty by deception and fraud. This ongoing investigation highlights the complexity of the case and the broader implications of the alleged actions taken by Son and her organization.
Legal Implications and Public Reaction
The dismissal of the bench warrant has sparked discussions about the legal procedures involved in such cases and the balance between protecting public interests and ensuring due process. Critics argue that the decision reflects a cautious approach by the court, emphasizing the need for solid evidence before resorting to detention. Supporters of Son, however, view the ruling as a victory for free speech and the right to express opinions without undue interference.
As the case continues, it will be closely watched by both legal experts and the general public. The outcome could set a precedent for similar cases involving political commentary and the role of organizations in shaping public opinion. The legal battle surrounding Son Hyo-sook underscores the challenges faced by courts in navigating complex issues of law, politics, and public discourse.