Former President Moon Jae-in Faces Bribery Trial: What’s Really Happening in Korea’s Latest Political Scandal?

The Start of the Trial: Moon Jae-in’s Absence and the Legal Drama

Did you know that former President Moon Jae-in’s bribery trial officially began on June 17, 2025, at the Seoul Central District Court? But here’s the twist: Moon himself didn’t show up for the first preparatory hearing. That’s actually allowed—Korean law doesn’t require defendants to attend these early sessions. Instead, the court focused on clarifying the charges, setting the agenda, and discussing evidence. The main issue? Whether Moon’s ex-son-in-law’s lucrative job at Thai Eastar Jet—allegedly arranged by Lee Sang-jik, a former lawmaker and airline founder—was a political favor that benefited Moon’s family. The prosecution claims Moon received over 200 million won (about $150,000) in indirect benefits through his son-in-law’s salary and housing support.

What Are the Allegations? The Thai Eastar Jet Connection

The heart of the scandal is the hiring of Moon’s former son-in-law, Seo, by Thai Eastar Jet between 2018 and 2020. Prosecutors allege Seo had no airline experience but was appointed to a high-paying executive role, receiving double the local CEO’s salary and generous housing benefits. Why? They claim it was in exchange for Moon appointing Lee Sang-jik to head the Korea SMEs and Startups Agency, a powerful government post. The prosecution says this arrangement was a classic quid pro quo—political influence traded for family gain. Both Moon and Lee were indicted, while Seo and Moon’s daughter, Da-hye, were not prosecuted but received suspended indictments. The case has been under investigation since a 2021 civic group complaint, and it’s become one of Korea’s most controversial legal battles.

Moon’s Defense: Political Witch Hunt or Real Evidence?

Moon’s legal team fiercely denies all charges. They argue Moon had no knowledge of or involvement in his son-in-law’s hiring and never asked for favors. After the indictment, Moon’s camp slammed the prosecution for a so-called 'lightning indictment,' claiming it was rushed and politically motivated. The Democratic Party has echoed these sentiments, calling the case an abuse of prosecutorial power and a political attack on a former president. Moon’s lawyers also requested the trial be moved to Ulsan, near Moon’s residence, citing his age and the difficulty of traveling 10 hours round trip with security. However, the court rejected this, insisting both Moon and Lee must be tried together in Seoul for legal consistency.

How Are Korean Communities and Netizens Reacting?

Online communities like Theqoo, Nate Pann, Instiz, DC Inside, FM Korea, and PGR21 are buzzing with debate. Some commenters express shock and disappointment, saying, 'Another president on trial, is this ever going to end?' Others defend Moon, arguing the charges are politically motivated and part of a pattern of targeting former leaders. On Naver and Daum, blog posts dissect the legal details, with many users noting the long investigation period and the lack of direct evidence linking Moon to the job arrangement. Meanwhile, some netizens joke about Korea’s 'tradition' of ex-presidents facing legal trouble, while others worry about the impact on the country’s global image. The community is deeply divided, reflecting broader political polarization.

Cultural Context: Why Are Korean Presidents Always on Trial?

If you’re new to Korean politics, you might be surprised by how many ex-presidents have faced criminal charges. In fact, every living former president has been investigated or jailed for corruption or abuse of power. This isn’t just bad luck; it’s rooted in Korea’s turbulent modern history, rapid democratization, and a political culture that often seeks accountability—sometimes with a vengeance—after leaders leave office. The Moon case is unfolding amid ongoing debates about the fairness of the justice system, the role of prosecutors, and the influence of political factions. For overseas fans and observers, understanding this pattern is key to grasping why the Moon trial is such a big deal in Korea.

What’s Next? Jury Trial, Political Fallout, and International Attention

After the first hearing, Moon’s team announced they want a jury trial—a rare move in Korean high-profile cases. This means ordinary citizens could help decide Moon’s fate, adding another layer of drama and public scrutiny. The court will decide in September whether to allow this. Meanwhile, the trial is expected to last months, with both sides preparing to call witnesses and present evidence. International media, from The New York Times to Al Jazeera, are closely following the case, noting its potential to deepen Korea’s political divides. As the story unfolds, expect more heated debate, legal twists, and passionate reactions from all sides.

Fan Culture and the Broader Impact: Why This Matters Beyond Politics

Korean fandom culture isn’t just about K-pop—it extends to politics, too. Moon Jae-in has a devoted base of supporters who see him as a champion of democracy and reform, while his critics view the trial as long-overdue justice. On social media, hashtags supporting or condemning Moon trend regularly, and online petitions have gathered tens of thousands of signatures. The trial is more than a legal battle; it’s a cultural moment, reflecting how deeply politics, media, and fandom are intertwined in South Korea. For international readers, this case offers a window into the unique dynamics of Korean society, where public opinion, online activism, and legal drama collide in real time.