Former idol group member A has been able to recover 2.6 billion won [nearly $2 million] that was swindled by an acquaintance.
According to a report by Chosun Ilbo on the 10th of April, B was sentenced to nine years in prison in the first trial for the charge of swindling 2.6 billion won by deceiving A, promising to ensure no charges were pressed in a sexual harassment case.
A was investigated in June 2019 on charges of sexually harassing two women. At that time, B, who was close to A, reportedly said to A, “I have connections within the prosecution, so I’ll ensure you won’t face any charges. I need money to give to high-ranking prosecutors.”
Believing this, A handed over 1.6 billion won to B. However, B had no connections with prosecutors and didn’t deliver the money to them. Subsequently, B swindled 1 billion won, including money borrowed from a bank using A’s house as collateral, and took away 218 luxury items such as bags owned by A.
After being swindled a total of 2.6 billion won over 26 months, A sued B.
In January last year, the Seoul Southern District Court sentenced B to nine years in prison and ordered him to pay 2.6 billion won to A.
The court further explained, “A must have been anxious as the incident occurred when footage for a broadcast was already edited, which could have a significant impact on their entertainment career. There was a possibility that A, who usually trusted B, was easily deceived.”
Moreover, it mentioned, “A has suffered severe financial losses and emotional distress due to this incident. Despite having committed serious crimes, B denies all charges without showing any remorse.”
Currently, B has appealed the verdict, and the second trial is ongoing at the Seoul High Court.
Source: (A)
