On April 9 KST, the first trial concluded with 'B', a broadcast writer, being sentenced to 9 years in prison for defrauding 'A', a former member of a prominent idol group, of 2.6 billion won under false pretenses of aiding in a sexual harassment case acquittal. The court ordered 'B' to return the entire sum to 'A'.

The case originated in June 2019 when 'A' faced sexual harassment charges. Exploiting their friendship, B falsely claimed to have connections within the prosecution to secure A's acquittal, soliciting funds purportedly for high-ranking officials. A, deceived, transferred 1.6 billion won to B. 

Following A's acquittal in December 2019, B demanded additional funds, alleging efforts to overturn the verdict. Subsequently, B embezzled 1 billion won, including loans secured against A's property, and misappropriated luxury items worth millions, including a gold bag, owned by A.

A filed a lawsuit against B after being defrauded of 2.6 billion won over 26 months. Last January, the Seoul Southern District Court sentenced B to nine years in prison, ordering restitution. The court utilized a compensation order system to determine damages resulting from the criminal acts.

The court empathized with A's vulnerable state during the harassment allegations, recognizing his susceptibility to manipulation by B, a trusted acquaintance. A's profound financial and emotional losses due to the deceit was also taken into consideration. Despite the severity of the crime's method, duration, and monetary impact, B showed no remorse, denying culpability.

Both the prosecution and B appealed the verdict, and the case awaits resolution in the ongoing second trial at the Seoul High Court.