Dog trainer Lee Chan-jong, who stood trial on charges of sexually harassing a fellow trainer, has opened up about his feelings for the first time after being acquitted following a four-year and five-month legal battle.
On July 19, Lee posted a video titled "Hello, this is trainer Lee Chan-jong" on his YouTube channel, 'Jaekkichan.' The video captures his arrival at the courthouse on the day of the appellate court's sentencing, as well as the moment he shared his relief with his family immediately after the acquittal.
Before entering the court, Lee said, "Today is the day my truth is revealed. I have gone through various processes over the past four years and five months. I don't know what the outcome will be, but I want to prove my innocence and confirm that truth exists in this world. It was harder to see my family suffer than to deal with my own grievances. My primary goal in clearing my name was to allow my family to live with their heads held high."
After the appellate court dismissed the prosecution's appeal and upheld the acquittal, Lee said, "I have proven my truth in the second trial as well. I have suffered so much for four years and five months, and I am so overwhelmed right now. My legs are giving way." He then embraced his daughter and wife, expressing his gratitude.
Lee's wife said, "My husband even went to a reservoir alone at one point. Since then, I have accompanied him to every police investigation, prosecution questioning, and court appearance." His daughter also emphasized her trust in her father, saying, "When the incident first broke, I wondered if I should even go to school. Some friends even told me, 'I didn't think you would come to school.' I was upset because I didn't understand why they thought that, as I had done nothing wrong."
Lee concluded by saying, "When the incident occurred, the first thing that came to my mind was my family. My family trusted me unconditionally and told me, 'We will protect you, Dad.' I am also grateful to the viewers of Jaekkichan for believing in me and supporting me from the beginning."
Meanwhile, Lee had been indicted on charges including coercing the euthanasia of dogs and animal abuse, but he was acquitted in both the first and second trials. With the prosecution's appeal dismissed, the acquittal has been finalized.
Reported by Kang Kyung-yoon | SBS Entertainment News
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