The Allegations Emerge

The Democratic Party (DP) has intensified its claims that Judge Ji Gui-yeon, who is presiding over former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s insurrection case, was entertained at a room salon. these establishments are known for serving alcoholic beverages to male customers, often accompanied by young women.

Despite the DP’s accusations and subsequent rebuttals,including the release of related photos,concrete evidence proving Judge Ji’s acceptance of hospitality remains elusive. The core of the controversy hinges on whether Judge Ji received improper benefits.

DP’s Press Conference: Photos and Accusations

on Monday afternoon, the DP held a press conference at its headquarters in Yeouido, Seoul. During the conference, three photos were presented:

• One photo depicted Judge Ji with two unidentified men.
• Two photos showcased the interior of the venue where the alleged entertainment took place.

Noh Jong-myun, spokesperson for the DP campaign committee, stated:

We confirmed that the establishment in question is a high-end room salon in Gangnam, southern Seoul, where female employees sit with patrons in every room and at every table. Compare the room salon interior photos with the one where Judge Ji appears clearly. The decor patterns and props are identical. It’s now time for Judge Ji to take responsibility for his lies. He must be removed from the bench immediately.

Noh Jong-myun, Democratic Party Spokesperson

Noh further asserted that the DP “believes he was entertained” but clarified that the party would not “present proof at this time” regarding whether any “hospitality” was accepted.

Regarding potential violations of the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, Noh stated:

The individuals photographed with Judge Ji appear to be involved in the legal field…highly suspected of being directly related to his duties.

Noh Jong-myun, Democratic Party Spokesperson

However, Noh did not identify these individuals or the informant.

Judge Ji’s Response

judge Ji denied the accusations on Monday morning, prior to the fourth hearing for former President Yoon. he addressed the concerns, stating:

I’m well aware of the concern and worry caused by recent suspicions directed at me. The claims being made are not true. I have never even imagined being entertained at such places.

Judge Ji Gui-yeon

He added a personal note, saying, There isn’t even anyone who buys me pork belly and soju. Judge Ji also expressed concern that the ongoing controversy could influence the trial itself, emphasizing the need to focus on a fair and swift legal process.

With an crucial trial underway, having the bench respond to ongoing outside attacks and suspicions sparked by background investigations into the judge could influence the trial itself.We will focus on conducting a swift and fair trial in accordance with legal procedures.

Judge Ji Gui-yeon

political Context and Reactions

The allegations against Judge Ji have emerged amid increasing pressure from the DP on the judiciary. This follows the Supreme Court’s May 1 decision to overturn and remand a case involving DP presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung, ruling in favor of a guilty verdict under the Public Official Election Act.

On May 14, lawmakers Kim Yong-min and kim Gi-pyo raised the issue during a plenary session of the National Assembly’s Legislation and Judiciary Committee, urging Chun Dae-yup, minister of the National Court governance, to conduct an examination.

The supreme Court initiated a probe into the allegations on Friday. Judge Ji has faced criticism from the DP since his decision on March 7 to cancel the arrest warrant for the former president.

na kyung-won, co-chair of the People Power Party’s election committee, accused the DP of pressuring the judiciary through unfounded attacks. She condemned the DP’s focus on a specific judge, calling it a malicious witch hunt aimed at creating a customized courtroom for Lee Jae-myung.

Na also criticized Lee,the DP’s presidential candidate,for what she described as a hypocritical stance on judicial fairness.

Lee’s calls for a ‘clean courtroom’ are, actually, a chilling declaration.he intends to bury his mounting legal troubles by branding judges who issue unfavorable rulings as enemies and purging them.

Na Kyung-won, Co-chair of the People Power Party’s election committee

Na urged Lee and his party to cease fueling public outrage with vague photos and unproven claims, stating:

If there is definitive evidence against Judge Ji, be obvious to the public instead of engaging in media manipulation by disclosing ambiguous photographs.

na Kyung-won, Co-chair of the People Power Party’s election committee