Lee Hwa-young, the former Gyeonggi-do Peace Deputy Governor, is awaiting a first-instance sentencing as a jury continues deliberations at Suwon District Court [1].

The verdict is critical because it will determine the legal validity of Lee's claims regarding a controversial "salmon alcohol party," which led to his indictment on perjury charges [2].

The proceedings took the form of a participatory trial, allowing citizens to engage in the judicial process. The trial lasted for 10 days [1], featuring intense legal arguments between the prosecution and the defense [2].

Lee was indicted after asserting the existence of the "salmon alcohol party" during previous legal proceedings. The current trial focuses on whether those statements constituted perjury [2].

Lee Su-bin, a reporter, said the court will issue the final sentence once the jury reaches a verdict [2]. The judge will refer to the jury's findings to determine the final ruling [2].

The court has not yet released the specific timeline for the announcement, but the sentencing is expected to follow immediately after the jury concludes its deliberations [1].

“The trial lasted for 10 days”

This case tests the credibility of high-ranking officials' testimony in South Korean courts. By utilizing a participatory trial, the court has shifted the initial fact-finding burden to a jury, meaning the verdict will reflect a civic assessment of Lee's truthfulness regarding the alleged party.