We demand a fair trial for Pastor Jeong Myeong Seok, who is being tried in court without proper evidence, based on public sentiment and religious discrimination.
We are deeply concerned about the ongoing trial of Pastor Jeong Myeong Seok and the series of events that have led to this situation. As citizens who believe in the universal rights of all individuals facing trial to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, we strongly believe that he is being treated unfairly and is subjected to false accusations. As such, we respectfully request that you intervene in this matter and ensure a fair and just trial for Pastor Jeong.
As of now, Pastor Jeong is being falsely accused of sexual assault with no concrete evidence to support these allegations, including any kind of DNA sample. The only “evidence,” an audio recording that the plaintiff alleged to have made on her iPhone (which she ended up selling), could not be authenticated by the legal forensic team in South Korea, and the prosecutors claimed to have accidentally deleted the backup file from the accuser’s iCloud. Further analyses from another reputable forensic lab suggest that the entire audio file was unprofessionally manipulated and is not an original iPhone recording. Additionally, third-party male voices have also been detected in the audio, bringing the authenticity of the file into question.
Despite these glaring facts, the judge has decided to make a premature sentencing for the alleged accomplices related to the case even before a verdict on Pastor Jeong can be reached. This is an outright violation of the legal process.
The nature of the accusations against Pastor Jeong and the unfortunate prevalence of fake news in society raise serious questions about the integrity of South Korea’s legal system. We understand the importance of upholding the law, but this instance is a clear case of an individual being judged based on public opinion and religious discrimination, rather than on concrete evidence. Moreover, the judge’s premature sentencing of alleged accomplices related to Pastor Jeong further highlights the potential for distorting the trial verdict through a loophole in the legal system.
It is our firm belief that every individual, regardless of their position in society or religious affiliation, should be considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The right to a fair trial is a fundamental human right, enshrined in both domestic and international law. Therefore, we urge you to take immediate action to ensure that Pastor Jeong is afforded the opportunity to defend himself in court fairly, and that the judiciary adheres to the principles of due process and impartial justice.
Additionally, we must not overlook the impact that this situation will have on South Korea’s reputation and standing both domestically and internationally. South Korea’s progress in technology, arts, and culture is well known, but this incident may diminish the nation’s image and make it harder for foreigners to feel safe and secure in South Korea.
Furthermore, if the legal system is perceived to be backwards and susceptible to public opinion, it will dissuade foreign businesses from collaborating and investing in South Korea. This, in turn, will hinder the country’s efforts to establish itself as a first-world nation. Lastly, the prejudice and discrimination that Pastor Jeong and Christian Gospel Mission members have experienced, spurred on by sensationalized news and broadcasts, really call into question the existence of ethical journalism/broadcasting or true religious freedom in South Korea.
President Yoon Seok Yeol, we kindly request that you take this matter into your own hands and ensure that justice is served in this case. Your intervention will not only serve to uphold the Basic Law but will also demonstrate to the international community that South Korea is committed to ensuring a fair and impartial legal system.
Firstly, we urge you to replace the judge presiding over the case with an impartial judge who has not been affected by the media. In any trial, it is crucial that the judge is able to make a fair and unbiased ruling, free from any external influences or pressures.
Secondly, we request that the trial be based on concrete and verified evidence, and not solely on statements from different parties. It is essential that the trial be conducted with thorough and accurate evidence, to ensure that justice is served fairly and accurately.
Thirdly, we call on you to ensure that the defendant, Pastor Jeong, has equal rights to defend his case. This includes the opportunity to have a complete retrial from the beginning and the chance to present all the requested witnesses. Every defendant has the right to a fair and just trial, and this must be upheld at all costs.
Lastly, we urge you to correct the abnormal order of the legal proceedings. It is unacceptable to deliver the verdict for the alleged accomplices’ trial before a verdict is even reached for the main defendant, Pastor Jeong’s, trial. This is a violation of the principles of a fair and impartial trial, and must be rectified immediately.
We appreciate your attention to this critical matter and look forward to your prompt response. Your actions in this case will not only demonstrate your commitment to justice but will also send a strong message that South Korea is dedicated to upholding the principles of democracy, fairness, and due process.
If you advocate justice, fairness, and truth, please scan the QR code below or click here to access and sign the petition.
