Prosecutors Seek Prison Sentence for Actor Oh Young-soo in Sexual Assault Case

On April 3, the Suwon District Court's 6th Criminal Division held a sentencing hearing for actor Oh Young-soo, who has been charged with sexual assault. The prosecution requested a one-year prison sentence, stating, "Oh Young-soo, a veteran actor with 50 years in the theater industry, committed his crimes against vulnerable rehearsal members. He has not received forgiveness from the victim, who continues to live in fear, yet he claims the victim is making false statements."

In response, Oh Young-soo expressed his embarrassment at standing trial at the age of 81. He stated, "If my words and actions have caused harm, I will accept the consequences. However, I do not believe my actions at the time could be considered sexual assault. I regret if my inadequate behavior has hurt the complainant. It is devastating to see my 80 years of life crumble. I ask to be allowed to return to my place."

Oh Young-soo's defense attorney argued that the only evidence against him is the victim's testimony, which lacks consistency and specificity, and is contradictory. They claimed that the guilty verdict from the first trial was based on an apology message Oh sent to the victim, which was made under pressure after the success of his series, Squid Game (오징어 게임).

The victim's attorney countered, stating, "The defendant has further harmed the victim by claiming he acted with a 'daughter-like heart' and has not shown genuine remorse. Only punishment can prevent similar crimes in the future."

Oh Young-soo is accused of forcibly hugging the victim and kissing her on the cheek during a theater performance from July to September 2017. He has denied all allegations, but the first trial resulted in an eight-month prison sentence, suspended for two years. The appellate court's ruling is scheduled for June 3.