The police investigating the so-called Paichai High School incident, in which students allegedly shouted mocking slogans related to the May 18 Democratization Movement during a game against Gwangju Jeil High School (Gwangju Jeil HS), have decided to close the case against the baseball team members without referring them to the prosecution.

Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency Commissioner Park Jeong-bo stated during a regular press briefing on the morning of the 13th regarding the investigation into the insult charges against the Paichai High School baseball players, "The victim, Gwangju Jeil HS, has expressed that they do not wish for punishment." He added, "Since insult is a crime that cannot be prosecuted without the victim's desire for punishment, it is likely to be settled in that manner."

He further noted, "The person who filed the complaint has expressed an intention to submit a withdrawal of the complaint."

The crime of insult is a complaint-based offense, meaning an investigation can only proceed if the victim files a formal complaint.

Therefore, once the victim submits a withdrawal of the complaint, the police are expected to close the case without referring it to the prosecution, citing a lack of right to prosecute.

Previously, the Seoul Yangcheon Police Station launched an investigation after receiving a complaint alleging that Paichai High School baseball players insulted Gwangju Jeil HS players during a game on June 29 by shouting slogans such as "Let's go to Starbucks" and "Tank Day."

The slogans "Let's go to Starbucks" and "Tank Day" were derived from the "Tank Day" promotion held by Starbucks Korea on the anniversary of the May 18 Democratization Movement, which sparked intense social controversy.

Separately, an investigation is underway into allegations that the Starbucks Tank Day promotion insulted those of merit in the May 18 Democratization Movement, including the bereaved family of the late Park Jong-cheol.

When asked about the status of the Starbucks investigation, Commissioner Park explained, "We are analyzing the audit and forensic data received from Shinsegae Group," adding, "We are also conducting investigations into relevant individuals according to procedure."

In response to a question about whether a forced investigation was conducted on an employee who refused to submit their mobile phone during the internal audit, he replied, "Nothing has been done yet," and added, "We will conduct necessary investigations as we proceed with the (investigation) process."

Regarding the collapse of the Seosomun Overpass, he stated that about 50 people have been questioned, noting, "It has been revealed that some safety management regulations or standards were not well observed."

He added, "We first investigated the construction company and the supervisor directly involved in the demolition work, and we are now investigating the agencies responsible for construction management and supervision."

When asked about the possibility of investigating Seoul Metropolitan Government officials, he replied, "We will do so if necessary."

Regarding a question on whether diplomatic factors are being considered in the investigation of the Coupang personal data leak, he drew a line, stating, "We are conducting (the investigation) according to principles, in accordance with the law and procedures."

On the investigation into HYBE Chairman Bang Si-hyuk for alleged fraudulent unfair trade practices, he said, "Once the supplementary investigation is completed, we will decide whether to seek an arrest warrant."

When asked if the prosecution recommended applying fraud charges instead of fraudulent unfair trade practices, he said, "The prosecution cannot demand a change in the charge. I have not received any official proposal," adding, "We will decide in consultation with the prosecution once the supplementary investigation is finished."

Previously, the Financial Crime Investigation Unit of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency applied for arrest warrants for Chairman Bang Si-hyuk twice, but they were rejected or dismissed by the prosecution.

(Photo: Yonhap News)