Prosecution Demands 10-Million-Won Fine For Yang Hyun Suk On Gambling Charges

Prosecution has demanded a fine of 10 million won (approximately $8,813) for YG Entertainment’s former CEO Yang Hyun Suk on charges of gambling.

On October 28, the Seoul Western District Court held the second trial for Yang Hyun Suk, who in June had been indicted on charges of flying to Las Vegas, United States seven times between July 2015 and January 2019 and gambling using a total of approximately $335,460 with four other individuals. Yang Hyun Suk’s lawyer admitted to all charges at the first trial held last month, but stated that part of the evidence presented by the prosecution did not serve as adequate proof.

At the second trial, Yang Hyun Suk’s lawyer said, “As revealed through the police investigation, Yang Hyun Suk did not take part in prostitution mediation or other activities with Seungri. YG Entertainment’s overseas headquarters was established for the sake of the artists’ international activities and is operating as normal. The investigation clearly revealed that there were no instances of illegal activities related to prostitution mediation or concealment of property.”

Yang Hyun Suk’s lawyer continued, “The defendants visited Las Vegas for the sake of their artists’ business and vacation and only spent two to three hours per day of their leisure time gambling. Although the total sum of money spent by the defendants is a large amount, when split between each person, it cannot be argued as such. Considering this evidence, the severity of the crime can be seen as minor. However, the defendants are reflecting on their actions that were contrary to the law.”

The prosecution stated, “Although the case was initially forwarded as habitual gambling, we decided to indict the individuals on charges of gambling. The defendants have no previous record of gambling offenses, and it’s difficult to view the purpose of their trip as gambling due to the presence of their family and company officials in Las Vegas. In addition, the money spent on gambling does not amount to a large amount per person. Due to these reasons, we have decided to indict the defendants on charges of gambling.”

The prosecution requested a fine of 10 million won (approximately $8,813) for Yang Hyun Suk after considering factors such as his lack of previous gambling offenses as well as the number of times and amount of money spent on gambling.

In his final statement, Yang Hyun Suk said, “I apologize for causing everyone trouble due to my mistake. I am seriously reflecting on my actions and will not make the same mistake again.”

Yang Hyun Suk’s sentencing hearing for his gambling charges will take place on November 27.

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