After being prosecuted and sentenced to two years of prison for multiple charges including violations of the Public Official Election Act and allegations of bribery for both him and his wife, Democratic party leader Lee Jae-myung was acquitted of his charges of perjury on Nov. 25.

The Seoul Central District Court found Lee not guilty of inciting false testimony during a previous trial, due to insufficient evidence proving his intent to lie. This is a significant verdict, as Lee has been consistently attacked with political persecution.

“I was surprised by the news of his trial,” Jun Lim (11), Democratic Party supporter, said. “However since Lee was proved not guilty for his convictions, I believe him, and I look forward to the outcome of his remaining trials.”

Despite this acquittal, Lee faces three additional high-profile trials, including bribery allegations, corruption surrounding the Dae Jang-dong urban development project, controversy surrounding his wife Kim Hye-kyung’s alleged embezzlement of government funds, and further accusations of violating the Public Official Election Act during his 2022 presidential campaign.

These ongoing legal trials of Lee come at a critical time for the Democratic Party, as it navigates internal divisions and external political challenges. While Lee’s acquittal strengthens his argument against the legitimacy of the charges, the outcomes of his remaining trials will significantly impact his political future and the party’s trajectory.