Nam Gyeong-joo, Jury Trial in November..."Will Seek Jury Verdict"

[Dispatch=Lee Myung-joo Reporter] Musical actor Nam Kyung-joo will undergo a citizen participation trial.

The Seoul Central District Court Criminal Division 29 (Presiding Judge Eom Ki-pyo) held a first preparatory hearing for Nam Kyung-joo on the 26th, who was referred to trial on charges of sexual intercourse with a person under supervision.

Nam Kyung-joo's attorney requested a citizen participation trial. The intention is to seek jurors' judgment on whether Nam Kyung-joo and the victim were in a protective supervisory relationship.

Meanwhile, the victim's side opposed the citizen participation trial. They cited legal precedent that sexual assault cases can be excluded from citizen participation trials.

A citizen participation trial is a system in which citizens participate in criminal trials as jurors. Through deliberation, a judgment on guilt or innocence is made. However, it has no legal binding force.

The court accepted the opinion of Nam Kyung-joo's attorney. It was decided to hold the citizen participation trial on November 27 and 30.

On the first day of trial, examination of facts, the prosecution's opening statement, and examination of documentary evidence will take place. Questioning of witnesses requested by Nam Kyung-joo's side will also be conducted.

In the second trial, victim witness examination, defendant examination, prosecution's recommendation for sentence, and defendant's final argument are scheduled. The first instance verdict will also be issued on the same day.

The method of persuading jurors is left to discretion. The court stated that "(either side) even if performing musical using their expertise, it will be sufficiently permitted."

Nam Kyung-joo is accused of sexually assaulting student A in the Seocho-gu area of Seoul last December. An attempt at criminal mediation to reach a settlement failed.

Meanwhile, Nam Kyung-joo is counted among the first generation of domestic musical actors. He took leading roles in major works including "Ladies and Gentlemen," "Mamma Mia," and "Chicago."