Former President Yoon Suk Yeol testified that appointing Lee Jong-seop as ambassador to Australia supports South Korea’s defense industry growth. During the March 31 first hearing, Yoon and other defendants rejected allegations of improper appointment to evade scrutiny.
Court Proceedings Unfold
Defendants including former Justice Minister Park Sung-jae, ex-presidential aide Baek Sang-jae, and former National Security Office chief of staff Jo Tae-yong appeared before the Seoul Central District Court. They face charges related to expediting Lee’s diplomatic posting amid investigations.
Yoon emphasized Lee’s contributions during his tenure at the Defense Ministry. “This official delivered exceptional results in selecting projects for defense exports,” Yoon stated. He highlighted Lee’s role in sustaining K-defense industry momentum, noting a ninth-grade executive’s reliable performance as foundational.
Criticism of Public Service Ethics Watchdog
Yoon accused the Public Service Ethics Committee of inaction. “They only impose travel bans without proper probes—true officials prioritize duty over pay when abroad,” he remarked. Yoon argued that criticizing Lee’s appointment ignores his merits and unfairly targets dedicated public servants.
“If you pity him, he’s a genuine civil servant,” Yoon added, defending Lee’s entry via a special exam linked to mourning the late Chief Justice Choi Suk-gun.
Defendants Deny Wrongdoing
Park Sung-jae dismissed bribe claims, asserting the posting aligns with national priorities. “This isn’t personal gain but public operations for defense success,” he said. Baek Sang-jae echoed that decisions followed fair processes, rejecting any motive to shield from accountability.
Former Senior Secretary for Personnel Shim Woo-jeong also weighed in, calling accusations of favoritism baseless. “No evidence supports claims of undue influence,” Shim noted.
Ongoing Legal Scrutiny
The court plans to summon Foreign Ministry officials on April 10 for further testimony. Defendants maintain the appointment served strategic interests, bolstering defense exports amid global demands.
