Samsung has not officially responded to the news that prosecutors are appealing the court’s decision to acquit Samsung Electronics Chairman Lee Jae-yong. However, there’s an atmosphere of tension as the reality of him not yet being free from legal risks looms.
The Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office filed an appeal on Jan. 7 with the 25-2 Criminal Agreement Division of the Seoul Central District Court, which was the first instance trial court. A prosecutor’s office official stated, “There are significant differences in opinion from the first instance verdict regarding the purpose and circumstances of the Samsung C&T-Cheil Industries merger for group control succession, the judgment of evidence on accounting fraud and unfair transaction practices, and the recognition of facts and legal judgment. There are also numerous points of contradiction with previous court decisions that recognized the ‘succession work’ for group control,” adding, “We appeal to unify the recognition of facts and interpretation of laws and to correct this.”
The prosecution expressed, “Given the long period of deliberation leading to the first instance verdict, we will ensure that the appellate trial proceeds swiftly and efficiently, focusing on the key issues and legal principles from the preparation stage of the public trial.”
Samsung remained silent without showing any significant reaction. A senior Samsung official stated, “We have no position to disclose.” An industry insider commented, “Samsung probably anticipated the possibility of the prosecution’s appeal internally, but must have felt frustrated upon hearing the news of the actual appeal. However, it is unusual for the prosecution to release a message stating that they will expedite the appeal.”
Just one day after the not guilty verdict from the first instance trial on Feb. 5, Chairman Lee went on a business trip overseas. It was his first trip aimed at global management after being freed from his shackles, but now he faces renewed burdens.