Key facts
- Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon's trial over political funds is set for an appeals court ruling Friday.
- A conviction with a fine of 1 million won or heavier would strip Oh of his mayorship.
- The lower court sentenced Oh to a 10 million won fine in July.
- Prosecutors are seeking an 18-month prison term and forfeiture of 33 million won.
An appeals court is scheduled to rule Friday on Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon's trial concerning alleged violations of the Political Funds Act. The case stems from opinion polls Oh allegedly received ahead of the 2021 mayoral by-election, with payments totaling 33 million won allegedly made by a political supporter. The lower court had sentenced Oh to a 10 million won fine in July, partially recognizing the charges and ordering forfeiture of the amount. Both Oh and the prosecution have appealed the ruling, with prosecutors seeking a harsher sentence of 18 months in prison and forfeiture of the full amount. If the appeals court upholds a conviction with a fine of 1 million won or more, Oh would be removed from his position as mayor.