SEOUL - The Seoul Central District Court has denied bail to Song Young-gil, former head of the Democratic Party (DP), who faces charges in a cash-for-votes scandal linked to the party's 2021 leadership election. Song, who sought bail to participate in the upcoming April 10 general elections and recently founded the "Pine Tree Party" while in custody, argued for his release to conduct campaign activities.
According to Yonhap News Agency, The court's decision to reject the bail request stems from concerns that Song could potentially meet with co-conspirators or destroy evidence if released. Arrested in December and indicted in January, Song is accused of distributing cash envelopes totaling 66 million won to 20 DP lawmakers and other party members before the May 2021 leadership election, which he won. The court's ruling reflects the gravity of the allegations against Song, emphasizing the judicial system's caution in political corruption cases.