미성년자 성 착취물 제작·유포 혐의…최영중 전 청주시의원 구속기소

A former Chongju City Councilman, 35-year-old Choi Young-jung, has been arrested and charged with multiple counts of sexual exploitation of minors and the creation/predistribution of sexual content involving minors. Choi claimed he was unaware the victims were underage, but investigators found evidence to the contrary, including their clothing, conversations, and a search of his home.

The victims include a middle school student and three other minors, aged 13 to 18. Choi is accused of engaging in sexual activity with the middle school student and other minors, as well as making and distributing explicit images. He is also charged with soliciting nude photos and videos from other minors. The case came to light in February when Choi's parents filed a complaint with the police.

Despite being questioned by authorities, Choi maintained he did not know the victims were underage and continued to engage in the illegal activities for over two years. Prosecutors will likely seek a medium-length sentence.