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Anti-Corruption Office Launches Probe Into Judge Jee Kui-youn

The investigation follows allegations by the Democratic Party that the judge presiding over Yoon Suk Yeol's trial accepted hospitality at a high-end hostess bar.

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Rep. Noh Jong-myeon, a spokesperson for the Democratic Party's election committee, discloses photos at the party's headquarters in Seoul on May 19, 2025, of what he said showed Judge Jee Kui-youn of the Seoul Central District Court being treated at an expensive hostess bar. (Yonhap)
Rep. Noh Jong-myeon, a spokesperson for the Democratic Party's election committee, discloses photos of Jee Kui-youn of the Seoul Central District Court at the party's headquarters in Seoul on May 19, 2025, raising allegations that the judge was treated at an expensive hostess bar. (Yonhap)
Judge Jee Kui-youn (centre) hears former president Yoon Suk-yeol’s insurrection trial at the Seoul Central District Court last month. Photo: Yonhap/EPA-EFE

Overview

  • The Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) has formally opened an investigation into bribery and graft allegations against Judge Jee Kui-youn.
  • Judge Jee, overseeing the insurrection trial of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, has denied accusations of being treated at a luxury hostess bar in Gangnam without paying.
  • The Democratic Party disclosed photos it claims show Judge Jee at the venue, but the allegations remain unproven as no definitive evidence has been presented.
  • The Supreme Court is also verifying the claims and has pledged to act in accordance with the law if the allegations are substantiated.
  • The Democratic Party continues to call for Judge Jee's removal, citing concerns over judicial impartiality in the politically sensitive trial.