Court finds their crime "despicable" and re-arrests one just weeks after release

⚖️ Appeals Court Adds More Time Behind Bars

Two women who blackmailed late actor Lee Sun-kyun have received longer prison terms in their appeals trial. On July 16, the Incheon District Court sentenced Kim (a bar manager) to 5 years and 6 months, and Park (a former actress) to 6 years and 6 months—both two years longer than their initial sentences.

Kim, who had been released on bail just three weeks prior, was immediately taken back into custody after the verdict. Park, also found guilty of attempted extortion and aiding extortion, remained composed as the sentence was delivered.

🕵️ Extortion Framed as Drug Scandal

The court ruled that Kim manipulated Lee's trust and "committed a crime so despicable it defies justification."

She falsely made it seem like the threat involved drugs, pressuring Lee into silence. Despite media frenzy, Lee tested negative for drugs three times during the investigation.

The blackmail campaign, combined with public scrutiny, was cited as a trigger for Lee's tragic passing in December 2023.

😢 Behavior After Release Also Under Fire

The court noted that Kim's behavior after being released on bail did not reflect genuine remorse. A letter submitted to the court reportedly expressed concerns over her attitude post-release.

Kim had offered 50 million KRW (approx. $36,000) as restitution to Lee's family—but the offer was rejected. The court emphasized that the emotional and financial damage remains unhealed.

📱 How the Extortion Happened

Kim and Park met in prison in 2017—Kim for drug charges, Park for fraud. After reconnecting in 2022, they lived in the same apartment complex in Seoul.

Kim, working in nightlife, confided in Park about her ties to Lee Sun-kyun. Park posed as a hacker and contacted both Kim and Lee via Telegram, demanding hush money.

Kim initially got 300 million KRW (~$215,000) from Lee, but didn't share it with Park. Frustrated, Park directly threatened Lee using a burner phone, eventually receiving 50 million KRW from one of Lee's acquaintances.

📺 Media Fallout: TV Chosun Under Fire

Lee's agency and family have filed legal action against TV Chosun, claiming the outlet aired false claims about a suicide note.

TV Chosun had published a partial letter allegedly left by Lee, citing regrets over ad and film contract penalties. However, his agency says the note didn't mention such issues and was meant only for his family.

The network deleted the article after backlash, but the legal and emotional scars remain.