Prosecutors seek 5-year prison term for pastor over courthouse riot

Prosecutors have asked a five-year prison sentence for conservative pastor Jeon Kwang-hoon, following his alleged role in a courthouse riot last year. The incident involved supporters of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, according to the Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office. This request was made during a court hearing, where Jeon is facing charges such as inciting trespassing in protected buildings and instigating violence by pro-Yoon protesters at the same court on January 19, 2023.

The charges also include violating the Assembly and Demonstration Act and obstructing traffic by encouraging a crowd in Gwanghwamun Square to march towards the court the day before the riot. The prosecutors argue that using violence against a court due to disagreement with the judicial process or verdict is a severe crime that jeopardizes the rule of law. They emphasize that Jeon's actions are particularly egregious in this regard.