Jang Seok-woo's appeal for leniency rejected
11 Aug - It was reported that Open World Entertainment's CEO Jang Seok-woo's petition for leniency in his sentence was denied by the court.
According to Koreaboo website, earlier in July, the CEO submitted a petition and an apology to the court. Through his legal team, it was stated, "The blame society has placed upon my client is harsher than the punishment and it is my view that he will be in great pain. The defendant is reflecting upon his actions."
They also stated that, "Even before the trial, Mr. Jang had received much criticism from the society. Please understand that Mr. Jang has not much choice in this situation."
He also denied using violence and threats towards his victims, explaining, "I am not lying in order to get rid of the charges. As a producer with age and experience, having done those things with young trainees, I feel remorse for what I have done."
The appeal for leniency was dismissed by Judge Yoo Sang-jae who stated that a need for lenience wasn't apparent. The final sentence against Mr. Jang will be announced at trial. The maximum sentence of nine years was requested.
The Open World Entertainment CEO was arrested in early April on suspicion of having sexually harassed multiple trainees of his company.
