Jung Yi-han admits to staging election attack

Jung Yi-han, a former Reform Party candidate for mayor of Busan, admitted to staging a physical attack during the June 3 local elections during his first trial at the Busan District Court. While acknowledging the facts of the incident, his legal team argued that the act was not intended to boost his popularity or election support.

Defense counsel claimed the staged incident, which involved an accomplice throwing a drink and eggs at Jung, was actually motivated by a desire to resolve personal conflicts with his father. The defense further argued that Jung lacked the intent to interfere with election freedom or publish false information for the purpose of winning, citing his low approval rating of 2–3% at the time.

The accomplice, identified as Mr. Yoon, admitted to participating in the staged attack but contested charges related to injury and obstruction of official duties. The court has scheduled a second hearing for next month to organize evidence and determine whether witness examinations will be required.