10-Year Prison Term Sought in Appeal for Man Who Robbed and Threatened Actor Nana

A man in his 30s who broke into the home of actor Nana (real name Im Jin-ah) and threatened her with a weapon has been recommended a 10-year prison sentence in his appellate trial.

During the sentencing hearing for the defendant, surnamed Kim, held on August 18 by the 14th Criminal Division of the Seoul High Court (Presiding Judges Jeong Kyung-geun, Lee Hyeong-geun, and Lee Hyun-woo), prosecutors asked the court to hand down the 10-year term.

Prosecutors had also sought 10 years in prison for Kim during the first trial, but the actual sentence handed down was lower, at 7 years.

Prosecutors pointed out, "While many individuals have diverse criminal records, it is rare to see someone commit crimes to this extent," adding, "The defendant fundamentally lacks a respect for the law and is skilled at lying."

They went on to criticize him, saying, "Far from repenting for his wrongdoings, he has filed criminal complaints against the victim and spun false claims," and "He continues to inflict secondary harm by exploiting the fact that the victim is a well-known celebrity."

They stated the reason for the sentencing recommendation, noting, "Given the gravity of the crime and his multiple prior criminal records, the sentence from the lower court is too lenient."

Kim's attorney stated, "We are painfully reflecting on the mental distress caused to the victims," but argued, "He did not break into the home with the initial intent to commit robbery."

In his final statement, Kim said, "I intended to commit theft in an empty house to cover my mother's hospital bills," and "I had no intention of harming anyone."

He added, "As a defendant who committed a crime, I know it is selfish to hope for leniency for my actions, but I earnestly ask for mercy."

The appellate ruling is scheduled to take place on September 22.

Kim was indicted on charges of breaking into Nana's home in Achon-dong, Guri, Gyeonggi Province, in the early hours of November 15 of last year carrying a weapon, threatening Nana and her mother by choking them, demanding money, and attempting a robbery that ended in failure.

The first trial found Kim guilty of the primary charges and sentenced him to 7 years in prison.

(Photo: Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.