The appeal of broadcaster You Young-jae, who is accused of sexually assaulting the biological sister of Sunwoo Eun-sook, was dismissed, maintaining the original sentence of 2 years and 6 months in prison.
On the 23rd, the 2nd-3rd Criminal Division of the Suwon High Court held a sentencing hearing for You Young-jae, who was detained on charges of violating the Special Act on the Punishment of Sexual Violence Crimes (sexual assault by a relative). The court dismissed appeals from both You Young-jae and the prosecution.
The court stated, “It is difficult to see the sentence as too heavy or too light for the defendant,” explaining the reason for upholding the original sentence.
You Young-jae was indicted for sexually assaulting A, the biological sister of his then-wife Sunwoo Eun-sook, five times from March to October 2023.
In January, the first-instance court sentenced You Young-jae to 2 years and 6 months in prison, citing concerns of flight, and ordered him to complete 40 hours of sexual violence treatment programs, as well as a 5-year employment restriction in institutions related to children and the disabled. Both the prosecution and You Young-jae's side appealed the first-instance ruling, claiming the sentence was inappropriate.
During the first appeal hearing held in April, You Young-jae's side stated, “We acknowledged and confessed to all issues, but we are appealing on the grounds of inappropriate sentencing,” and added, “Supporters, including You Young-jae's family, submitted petitions. To not betray the bonds with them, I will not commit any further offenses.”
In his final statement, You Young-jae said, “I lacked awareness of the intimacy and sexual standards I possess. I was wrong. I sincerely apologize to the victim who has suffered because of me and bow my head deeply in apology to the victim who is in pain.”
The prosecution requested the court to impose a 5-year prison sentence on You Young-jae, the same as in the first instance, during the appeal's decision hearing.
[Kim So-yeon, Star Today Reporter]
