Former lawmaker Yoon Kwan-seok receives suspended prison sentence in bribery appeal

The Seoul High Court has overturned a previous acquittal for former lawmaker Yoon Kwan-seok, sentencing him to one year in prison suspended for two years and a fine of 20 million won. The court also ordered the collection of 14 million won.

Yoon was accused of accepting approximately 22.7 million won in bribes and entertainment from a bathroom fixture manufacturer in exchange for legislative favors. This included receiving political donations for himself and other lawmakers, as well as having golf fees paid on his behalf. The court found that while personal friendships may exist, the provision of benefits became bribery once specific business interests and legislative requests were established.

During the period in question, Yoon, who served as a ranking member of the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee, reportedly made inquiries regarding housing construction laws during parliamentary audits following the requests. Yoon has rejected the ruling, claiming it is political suppression by the prosecution, and has announced plans to appeal to the Supreme Court.