A South Korean judge who presided over the appeals trial of former first lady Kim Keon Hee in a high-profile corruption case has been found dead near a court complex in Seoul, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The judge, identified as Shin Jong-o, was discovered in the early hours of the morning at the Seoul High Court compound. According to Yonhap News Agency, police said his body was found on a flower bed at around 1 a.m., following an emergency report received approximately an hour earlier.
Law enforcement officials stated that a note believed to be written by Shin was recovered from his pocket. The note reportedly contained an apology but did not reference the ongoing or concluded trial involving the former first lady. Authorities have not disclosed further details about the contents.
Preliminary findings suggest no immediate signs of foul play. Investigators are currently working to determine the exact cause of death, with early indications pointing to the possibility that the judge may have fallen from a height. However, officials have emphasized that inquiries are ongoing and that all relevant circumstances will be examined before a final conclusion is reached.
The incident has drawn significant public attention due to Shin’s role in one of the country’s most closely watched legal cases. He had presided over the appeals proceedings involving former first lady Kim Keon Hee, who faced corruption-related charges.
Last month, the appeals court increased Kim’s sentence from 20 months to four years. The case centered on allegations of involvement in a stock manipulation scheme as well as the acceptance of luxury gifts linked to the Unification Church. The ruling marked a notable development in a case that has carried political and legal implications in South Korea.
While there is no official indication linking the judge’s death to the case, the timing has prompted heightened public interest and scrutiny. Legal experts and observers have called for a thorough and transparent investigation to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police officials reiterated that, at this stage, there is no evidence suggesting criminal involvement. They noted that standard procedures are being followed, including forensic examinations and a review of available surveillance footage within the court परिसर.
The judiciary has yet to issue a detailed statement, though the development is expected to prompt internal reviews and expressions of condolence within legal circles. Colleagues and members of the legal community are likely to reflect on Shin’s professional contributions as the investigation continues.
Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation while the inquiry remains ongoing. Further updates are expected as investigators gather more information and complete their assessment of the scene and related evidence.
The incident underscores the broader attention surrounding South Korea’s judicial system, particularly in cases involving prominent political figures. For now, the focus remains on establishing the facts surrounding the judge’s death and ensuring that due process is followed in the investigation.
