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| Kim Ho-jung, a trot singer who is facing trial for charges of drunk driving and hit-and-run, is requesting permission to use an ankle bracelet due to ankle pain. /2024.05.24 /Photo=Lee Dong-hoon |
, ‘Singer Kim Ho-jung, who has been sent for trial on charges of drunk driving and hit-and-run, requested permission to wear an ankle bracelet while complaining of ankle pain.’, ‘On the morning of the 30th, Judge Choi Min-hye of the 26th Criminal Division of the Seoul Central District Court conducted a trial for Kim Ho-jung, who was indicted on charges of aggravated punishment for specific crimes (dangerous driving resulting in casualties, fleeing the scene), failure to take action after a traffic accident under the Road Traffic Act, and aiding a criminal’s escape.’, ‘On that day, Kim Ho-jung’s defense stated, “The defendant has been suffering from worsening ankle pain for a long time, enduring each day in severe pain. He attempted to alleviate the symptoms through surgery but could not schedule the surgery due to his commitments,” while requesting permission to wear an ankle bracelet.’,
‘Earlier on the 21st of last month, Kim Ho-jung’s defense team submitted a request for bail to the court, asking for him to be tried without detention.’, ‘Furthermore, they stated, “The defendant is enduring by taking medication prescribed by a doctor and cannot consume narcotics due to being classified as unsuitable for admission to a detention facility. According to the attending physician’s diagnosis, the defendant experiences pain while walking due to ankle instability. If the surgery is delayed, there is a high risk of developing arthritis,” appealing that as a well-known public figure, he has no reason to flee.’, ‘However, the prosecution countered by stating, “After being detained, there have been no significant changes in circumstances, and the defendant committed these crimes to evade punishment,” expressing concerns about the possibility of escape.’, ‘The prosecution sentenced Kim Ho-jung to 3 years and 6 months in prison on that day.’, ‘On May 9th, Kim Ho-jung is accused of crashing into a taxi while intoxicated and fleeing the scene at around 11:40 p.m. on a road in Apgujeong-dong, Gangnam-gu, Seoul.’, ‘Additionally, Kim Ho-jung is also facing charges of using false accusations to coerce a staff member of his agency, Saeang Entertainment, after fleeing. Following police inquiries to confirm the vehicle owner, Kim Ho-jung belatedly admitted to the act of driving. However, due to the difficulty of precisely determining the level of alcohol in his system, the prosecution did not apply the charge of drunk driving against Kim Ho-jung.’