Youth Union Voices Concerns Over “Lee Jae-myung Law”

members of the Youth Union for the Next Generation Revival gathered in front of the Supreme Court in Seoul on March 28th to voice their concerns regarding the legal proceedings surrounding Lee Jae-myung. Their primary demand is a judgment based solely on legal principles,free from political interference.

The activists’ demonstration comes amidst growing public debate following the recent appeal in Lee’s case.They argue that the initial conviction,later overturned,sets a dangerous precedent,suggesting a biased application of the law. This sentiment echoes broader anxieties about the politicization of the judicial system, a concern that has been steadily rising in recent years. For example, a recent survey by the Korea Institute of Public Governance found that only 35% of Koreans have confidence in the impartiality of the courts, a notable drop from 52% a decade ago.

Highlighting Statistical Anomalies and Potential Bias

The Youth union points to what they perceive as statistical anomalies in the legal proceedings. They cite an analysis suggesting a mere 1.7% probability of the initial conviction being overturned, framing it as an indication of undue influence or a departure from established legal norms.

Won Nu-rim, co-representative of the Youth Union, stated:

I can’t help but think that this two-trial ruling is an example of the law of Lee Jae-myung’s wrong ruling.
Won Nu-rim, co-representative of the Youth Union

This statement encapsulates the core concern of the activists: that the legal process is being manipulated to achieve a predetermined outcome, perhaps undermining the very foundations of justice.

Demanding Impartiality from supreme Court Justices

The Youth Union directly addressed thirteen Supreme Court Justices, urging them to resist political pressure and render a verdict based solely on the law and the presented facts. This direct appeal underscores the activists’ belief that the integrity of the supreme court is paramount in ensuring a fair and just outcome.

Concerns Over Distorted Context and Erosion of Legal principles

Choi Ga-eun, another member of the Youth Union, expressed deep concern over what she described as a distortion of the original context and purpose of Lee Jae-myung’s statements. She argued that the court’s decision to focus on isolated portions of his remarks, while ignoring the broader context, represents a fundamental flaw in the legal reasoning.

Choi emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating:

The Supreme Court must not be political pressure, but only to make a just judgment based on the law and fact. It is not a man’s win or loss, but the foundation of law and justice.
Choi Ga-eun,Youth Union Member

This sentiment reflects a broader fear that political considerations are overriding legal principles,potentially leading to a miscarriage of justice.

Broader Implications for Public Trust and Equality Before the Law

The Youth union’s concerns extend beyond the specific case of Lee Jae-myung. They argue that the outcome of this trial will have significant implications for public trust in the judiciary and the principle of equality before the law. They highlight ongoing corruption allegations against Lee, including accusations of preferential treatment in development projects, as further reasons for concern.

Park Seung-yi,a young activist,stated:

The presidential candidate’s false facts are not just a mistake,but a serious crime that deceives the whole nation and hinders the right judgment of the voters.
Park Seung-yi, Youth Union Member

The activists believe that any perceived preferential treatment for Lee Jae-myung would undermine the public’s faith in the legal system and erode the fundamental principle that all citizens are equal under the law.

Looking Ahead: The Supreme Court’s Decision

As the case moves to the Supreme Court, the Youth Union remains steadfast in its call for a fair and impartial judgment. They hope that the court will uphold the principles of law and justice, reaffirming the integrity of the Korean judicial system and restoring public trust.