On the 19th, during the appeal trial at the Seoul Central District Court, the prosecution requested a sentence of 3 years and 6 months for Kim Ho-joong, the same as in the first trial. Previously, the court had sentenced him to 2 years and 6 months in prison.
Dressed in a light blue prison uniform, Kim entered the courtroom on crutches. Despite being offered a seat by the judges, Kim chose to stand while delivering his final statement. He expressed deep remorse, saying, "I sincerely apologize for causing social controversy and for the harm caused to the victim's daily life. I am truly sorry for the public resources wasted on this investigation."
Kim continued, "I have spent the past four seasons in Seoul Detention Center reflecting on my mistakes. Although my crimes will never be erased, I am determined to use this as a catalyst to live a new life."
He concluded by stating, "Everything is my fault and mistake. I am genuinely sorry and will continue to reflect on my actions."
Kim's attorney argued in the final defense that Kim did not obstruct the measurement of his blood alcohol level after the accident. The lawyer claimed, "Kim has been excessively misunderstood, leading to an overly harsh punishment. The first trial's sentence is too severe, considering he has no prior criminal record."
Kim turned himself in to the police 17 hours after the accident. He was charged with causing injury while driving dangerously, fleeing the scene, failing to take necessary measures after an accident, and instructing someone to evade arrest. The prosecution did not pursue DUI charges due to the difficulty in determining his blood alcohol level using the Widmark formula.
The sentencing is scheduled for April 25.
Choi Ji-ye, TenAsia Reporter, wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr