TOKYO - On Friday, the Japanese government gave its approval to a significant economic package valued at approximately 21.3 trillion yen ($135 billion) aimed at addressing increasing living expenses, as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi strives to boost growth via increased financial expenditure.

The initial economic support package introduced by Takaichi, who assumed the role of prime minister only a month ago, is projected to amount to 42.8 trillion yen once combined with expenditures from regional governments and the private sector, significantly exceeding the 39 trillion yen in previous year's initiatives.

A set of actions within the package aim to assist the world's fourth-largest economy due to worries that increased U.S. tariffs could negatively impact companies and everyday people.

Besides short-term actions to ease inflation, the government intends to increase funding in sectors like shipbuilding and artificial intelligence, considered essential for handling emergencies and ensuring national security.

Takaichi believes that these strategic investments could also boost the nation's sustained economic development.

The possibility of a major stimulus package has led to a decline in the yen and Japanese government bonds recently, driven by investor worries regarding the nation's worsening financial situation, which is already the most severe among developed economies, with debt exceeding twice the size of its economy.

In a clear effort to address these worries, Takaichi informed journalists that the economic plan aligns with the "financial stability of the country."

Mentioning her motto of "responsible and active" financial management, she stated, "We will not recklessly seek to increase spending."

To finance the economic package, the government intends to create a supplementary budget of 17.7 trillion yen for the current fiscal year ending in March, with the goal of passing it before the current Diet session concludes in December.

It would surpass the 13.9 trillion yen additional budget for the prior fiscal year established by Takaichi's predecessor, Shigeru Ishiba, indicating her advocacy for substantial financial expenditure.

Japan's additional budget allocations have surpassed 10 trillion yen in recent years, significantly higher than the few trillion yen that were common prior to the COVID-19 outbreak.

Despite the government's intention to issue more bonds to address a budget deficit, Takaichi mentioned that the overall debt to be issued this fiscal year by March is expected to be less than the previous year's figure of 42.1 trillion yen.

The government's economic support plan is expected to briefly reduce consumer prices by as much as 0.7 percentage point, while increasing Japan's real gross domestic product by 24 trillion yen, equivalent to an annualized growth rate of 1.4 percent, according to the Cabinet Office.

However, certain economists are casting doubt on the effectiveness of the most recent package, cautioning that boosting demand in a period of rising prices might drive costs even higher and place a burden on families.

Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama dismissed this perspective, informing reporters that the content and size of the package will not lead to what she referred to as "demand-pull inflation," since it was created by gathering what is currently essential.

Notable items consist of cash gifts of 20,000 yen for each child, needing approximately 400 billion yen in public financial support, along with rice coupons or similar vouchers valued at 3,000 yen per individual to be provided by municipal officials.

The government will also include in the package the impact of abolishing a temporary gasoline tax and increasing the tax-free income threshold as part of initiatives to ease the economic pressure on families.

With rising food costs affecting households, the central government will allocate 2 trillion yen in subsidies to local authorities, allowing them to implement their own initiatives.

The package will also provide 500 billion yen in support for electricity and gas bills during the first three months of next year, lowering household energy expenses by approximately 7,000 yen on average over that time.

The JIH, supported by the Ministry of Justice and the Chief Prosecutor's Office, includes all pertinent agencies such as prosecutors and police, the Korea Coast Guard, the Financial Supervision Service, the National Tax Service, and the Immigration and Foreign Affairs Headquarters, all of whom are involved in the process from drug importation to supply and distribution. Of the 86 members in total, 42 are prosecutors and 33 are police officers.

The Office of the Chief Prosecutors provided details about the initiative, saying, “Although drug-related offenses have increasingly moved to non-in-person approaches by criminal groups, resulting in a significant rise in such crimes among younger individuals who have convenient internet access, causing substantial damage throughout society, the current drug investigation system faced challenges in addressing these problems.”

Former head of the Suwon District Prosecutors' Office, Park Jae-eok, who was once seen as a top contender for the headquarters chief role, announced his decision to step down on the 17th, creating an empty spot. The Ministry of Justice intends to appoint a prosecutor at the chief prosecutor level as the JIH chief in the near future.

The JIH consists of two primary divisions: Section 1, which focuses on prosecutors, and Section 2, which revolves around police. The leader of Section 1 is Shin Joon-ho, who previously served as the Narcotics and Organized Crime Planning Officer at the Supreme Prosecutors' Office and is now the first chief prosecutor at the Busan District Prosecutors' Office. The head of Section 2 is Park Heon-su, the chief of the Investigation Bureau at the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency.

Beneath the two sections, there are four prosecution units, seven investigation units, one investigative support unit, and two specialized enforcement units. When the investigative support unit and specialized enforcement units detect cases through data analysis and enforcement activities, the investigation units initiate the inquiry, while the prosecution units take on the cases for additional investigations, among other tasks.

Furthermore, a crime prevention unit and an international cooperation team responsible for overseas assignments also support the JIH's operations from abroad.

The Office of the Chief Prosecutors said, “The JIH will make every effort to completely prevent all offenses associated with drug trafficking, distribution, and use, guaranteeing that people can lead a tranquil everyday life in a community free from narcotics.”

Seoul Western District Court's Criminal Division 11, presided over by Judge Heo Joon-seo, conducted a sentencing hearing on the 23rd of the previous month for an individual identified as A (51), who was accused of theft and violating the Road Traffic Act (driving without a license). The defendant received an eight-month prison sentence, which is suspended for a period of two years. Additionally, the court mandated probation and required the completion of 40 hours of lawful driving education sessions.

Mr. A is being charged with entering unsecured passenger cars in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province, and Mapo-gu, Seoul, and using keys found inside to drive about 34 kilometers without a valid license.

On July 30, Mr. A took an Avante passenger car valued at 10 million Korean won from an open-air parking area in Ojeong-gu, Bucheon. He drove the stolen vehicle about 18 kilometers to a street in front of Seodaemun-gu, Seoul. Later that day, around 3:14 p.m., Mr. A stole a GV80 passenger car belonging to a company, worth 80 million Korean won, from a parking lot in Mapo-gu, Seoul. He then traveled approximately 16 kilometers to Seodaemun-gu. While driving, he also stopped at a gas station after running out of fuel.

At that time, Mr. A's driver's license was suspended, making him legally unlicensed. During police interrogation, he reportedly said, "I don't recall," when questioned about the details of the crimes.

The court mentioned, "All stolen vehicles were given back to the victims, and the defendant does not have a history of punishment beyond a suspended sentence," and noted, "There is a possibility that this crime was caused by an illness the defendant is currently experiencing, indicating that treatment might be required," as the foundation for the sentencing.

A man from Hong Kong has been held in detention following charges of sedition, allegedly due to posting on social media encouraging others not to vote or to submit invalid ballots in the upcoming election.“patriots only” legislative elections.

Lam Chung-ming, aged 68, appeared at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts on Thursday afternoon, facing a single charge of "knowingly distributing materials with seditious intent."

As per the police, hewas arrested on Tuesdayon the grounds of repeatedly sharing material on social media that not only fueled hostility against the Hong Kong government, the courts, and police forces, but also encouraged individuals to refrain from voting or to submit invalid ballots in an election.

Local news outlets reported on Thursday that the prosecution requested a delay to allow police additional time for further inquiry.

Law enforcement officials took two computers and three mobile devices from Lam's home, stating they require additional time to examine the material to determine if further offenses were committed.

Chief Judge Victor So, who is assigned to handle national security cases, rejected Lam's request for bail and directed that he stay in custody until his next court hearing on December 30.

Hong Kong officials have taken action against efforts to cast invalid votes and organize boycotts of the Legislative Council (LegCo) elections scheduled for December 7. This marks the second legislative election to be held in the city.overhauled its electoral systemin 2021 to guarantee that only loyal citizens are eligible to run.

A total of 161 applicants are competing for 90 positions across the geographical, functional, and Election Committee constituencies.

See also: Hong Kong's anti-graft authority accuses three individuals of promoting calls to boycott 'patriots-only' elections

The national security law imposed by Beijing does not include sedition, as it focuses on secession, subversion, collaboration with foreign entities, and terrorism, with the highest possible punishment being life in prison.

It had been illegal under the colonial-era Crimes Ordinance, carrying a maximum sentence of two years in prison. This law was abolished in March 2024, when Hong Kong introduced its own security legislation, commonly referred to asArticle 23 legislation, which increased the maximum punishment for sedition to seven years in jail.

Apart from the 2020 Beijing-implementedsecurity law, the homegrown Safeguarding National Security Ordinancetargets acts of treason, rebellion, destruction, foreign interference, sedition, theft of state secrets, and spying. It provides forpre-charge detentionas long as 16 days, andsuspects’ access to lawyersmay be limited, with consequences includingup to a life sentence. Article 23 was shelvedin 2003, during widespread demonstrations, it remained a sensitive topic for many years. However, on March 23, 2024, it was finally passed into law.fast-trackedand was unanimously accepted by the city's non-opposition legislature.

The law has has faced criticism from human rights NGOs, Western states and the UNas vague, broad, and "regressive." Officials, however, mentioned supposed foreign involvement and a constitutional obligation to "close gaps" following the2019 protests and unrest.

Neople disclosed on the 21st, "We have reached a preliminary agreement regarding the 2025 wage and collective bargaining on the 18th," and mentioned, "We have chosen to raise the average annual salary by roughly 4 million South Korean won per employee, boost welfare points, and expand housing support funds for Jeju, where our headquarters is situated." A Neople representative noted, "The agreement aligns with the labor-management deal established by Nexon Korea in March, except for the additional housing support funds for Jeju."

Previously, the Neople labor union staged a strike in June of last year, requesting additional performance bonuses and the equitable distribution of such bonuses to all employees. Since the Neople management refused to accept the demand for 'equitable distribution of performance bonuses to all employees,' which would undermine the fundamental compensation principles of the domestic gaming industry, labor-management talks collapsed.

Last month, the Neople labor union, which had disputes with the higher-level organization, the Nexon labor union, regarding the continuation of the strike, was dissolved and subsequently established as the Neople branch under the Textile and Chemical Industry Workers’ Union earlier this month. This year, Neople management carried out wage negotiations with the Neople branch. It is reported that during these negotiations, the Neople branch, functioning under an emergency committee system, withdrew its request for equal distribution of performance bonuses.

A recent study by the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre highlights that middle-aged Australians are most vulnerable to burnout, caught between job demands, family obligations, and increasing financial pressures.

Lead researcher Dr. Daniel Kiely noted that women in their 40s and 50s bear a significant burden, dedicating approximately 12 additional hours each week to unpaid caregiving and domestic tasks compared to men, while facing 13 percent higher levels of time-related stress.

At the age of 48, one out of every ten women is responsible for caring for both children and elderly parents, which is twice the proportion for men.

"Many belong to the 'sandwich generation,' caught between looking after children and elderly parents while also managing full-time employment," he stated.

The outcome is a persistent lack of time that undermines both mental well-being and financial stability.

The study reveals that approximately one-third of Australians during their middle years face a significant adverse life event annually, with divorce and economic difficulties being particularly harmful.

"Financial strain makes separation four times more likely, whereas single parents—especially women—experience the lowest levels of life satisfaction and the highest levels of difficulty," said Senior Research Fellow Dr. Abebe Hailemariam.

Breakdowns in relationships, financial pressures, and the responsibility of unpaid care are not separate issues. They overlap in complex ways that influence people's lives over many years.

Dr. Kiely noted that although midlife Australians contribute significantly to their households, workplaces, and communities, they face the highest rates of time pressure, burnout, and emotional exhaustion—a pattern that has become more severe in recent years.

"Australians in their middle years form the foundation of our society by raising children, caring for elderly parents, contributing to economic growth, and sustaining community activities," he stated.

But these efforts come with a price. Limited time, financial pressure, and the ongoing challenge of balancing conflicting responsibilities have led to a situation of heightened stress and worsening mental health.

The document advocates for specific policy changes to assist Australians during their middle years, such as increasing adaptable work rights and improving access to parenting, financial, and relationship assistance.

"The prime working years are when Australians make their greatest contributions – financially, socially, and in terms of community involvement. Helping them during this time is an investment for all generations," Dr. Kiely stated.

If the center remains firm, the entire society gains.

• Why are young Australians leaving high-paying jobs for mental well-being, with the cost of living increasing? Learn about the move from stressful professions to more satisfying lifestyles.
• Why are younger Australians facing greater challenges with the rising cost of living compared to baby boomers, even though wage growth has been slow across the board?
• Is the cycle of blaming different generations becoming more intense as younger Australians choose not to have children due to rising expenses?
• What steps can women in their 50s take to escape the ongoing financial and emotional pressures of supporting both elderly parents and grown-up children?
• Why are Australian parents getting older than ever in their pursuit of family security?

The party added that the president's actions represent the most recent and courageous instance of tokenism, calling on him to temporarily move to Kebbi State and other areas experiencing armed conflict in Northern Nigeria.

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Eme­mobong, on Thursday in Abuja, PDP mentioned that although the decision might seem to show support for the kidnapping of the Maga schoolgirls and the growing insecurity nationwide, it is not the case at heart.

He stated: "If the APC-backed presidency disagrees with this stance, then we insist that President Tinubu temporarily move to Kebbi State and other areas experiencing armed conflict in Northern Nigeria. This action would not only push the security forces to take more determined steps in halting the current violence, but would also enhance the spirits of the soldiers at the front lines."

As the President and Commander-in-Chief, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu should not remain comfortable in the Presidential Villa while 25 schoolgirls have been kidnapped and their location is still unknown. He needs to show leadership by taking the lead, as genuine leaders do during times of serious national crisis.

The recent incidents in Kwara State reinforce our claim that insecurity and fear have turned into the everyday reality and new normal for Nigerians throughout the country. However, the APC-led government keeps making complete denials, justified explanations, hollow promises, and other superficial actions like the president's postponed visit.

The party added that "without additional strategic measures, this trip cancellation will simply be another media stunt designed to gain public support and empathy, rather than addressing the pressing need to protect lives and property throughout Nigeria. If this were a political crisis (similar to the situation in Rivers State), President Tinubu would have utilized all available strategies and resources, both inside and outside the law, to resolve it."

We officially inform the president and his administration that Nigerians are fed up with symbolic actions like expressions of sympathy and canceled trips. The country urgently needs strong leadership, strategic measures, and real support for the security forces, particularly those on the front lines, instead of superficial efforts aimed at gaining political advantage.

The security of Nigerians should not be treated as just a show. Leadership needs to go beyond appearances and provide real, ongoing actions that rebuild public trust and safeguard lives and assets. This issue requires genuine commitment, not just symbols. The presidency must step up or step aside for those who can.

What motivated you to start your own business?

I have always felt a powerful urge to create. To me, being an entrepreneur goes beyond launching a business; it's about addressing challenges and building environments that support personal development. I've always aimed to make an impact, using my abilities to provide value to others. Initially, I didn't intend to become an entrepreneur; I simply wanted to improve and add significance to things. As time passed, this motivation evolved into the work I am engaged in now.

Where did you come up with the idea or concept for these companies?

Every concept originated from a need I observed. When I launched my albums, it was challenging to get mainstream radio stations to play my music. Rather than just complaining, I asked myself, why not build a platform that would feature not only my tracks but also provide opportunities for others to be recognized? That's how Heartsong Live was born. It evolved into a hub for music, meaning, and positive content that makes people feel acknowledged and motivated.

Keep evolving with Eloho emerged from another need I continuously observed.

Many talented women faced challenges with self-assurance and recognition. They possessed the ability, yet lacked the skills to present themselves or share their experiences.

I began assisting women in developing clarity, self-assurance, and a solid sense of identity regarding their personal brands, enabling them to present themselves and be acknowledged for their true selves.

Then arrived Adelphe. When I initially relocated to the UK, I experienced a sense of isolation. I found it challenging to locate places where I could genuinely connect and feel at home.

What I required the most during that period was guidance, support, connections, and a sense of belonging. That experience remained with me, and many years later, I chose to establish precisely what I had once needed. Adelphe evolved into a place for women, particularly those going through changes, to connect, recover, and flourish.

Every project comes with its own narrative, yet the core motivation remains identical. My aim is to assist individuals in ascending, discovering their voice, and embracing their purpose completely.

What were your biggest challenges and how did you manage to overcome them?

One of my greatest difficulties was developing confidence in my own voice and avoiding the urge to conform to others' expectations.

At times, the dream seemed larger than the available resources. I discovered the importance of taking incremental steps, concentrating on advancement rather than flawless outcomes.

Being around the correct individuals also made a significant difference.

I frequently reminded myself that I was creating something greater than myself. Each challenge turned into a part of the narrative that influenced my development.

What inspired you to take on a mentoring role, and how does attentive listening contribute to your method of guidance?

I chose to become a mentor because I understand the experience of traveling a journey by oneself, filled with thoughts but uncertain about the beginning.

Mentoring is how I provide others with the support I once sought—clarity, bravery, and guidance.

Effective listening is essential. You cannot support someone unless you genuinely listen to them. When I meet with a client or mentee, I spend time comprehending their experiences, their anxieties, and their aspirations. Only after that can I assist them in a manner that truly propels them ahead.

Who are your role models in the business world?

I have been lucky to gain knowledge from amazing mentors who have influenced my development in various ways.

Nicki James has had a significant impact, particularly in terms of brand clarity and positioning. Mindset coach Aaron T. Aaron has assisted me in enhancing my inner confidence and self-discipline. Muyiwa Olarewaju, my radio mentor, showed me the value of being genuine and having a clear purpose in broadcasting.

Elena Daccus, a sales coach and mentor, has encouraged me to think more expansively and engage with business in a courageous manner, while George Oriahi, a talented business strategist, keeps pushing and shaping my vision and methodology.

Each of them has contributed something meaningful to my path, and I am sincerely thankful for their guidance, truthfulness, and confidence in me.

What strategies do you use to keep yourself updated in your area of expertise so you can offer valuable guidance to those you mentor?

I am constantly acquiring new knowledge. I read, participate in gatherings, fund educational programs, and remain engaged in discussions within my field.

I also consider my audience. The inquiries they pose and the difficulties they encounter provide me with valuable insights into the direction the world is taking. This enables me to ensure my guidance remains down-to-earth and applicable.

What sets your company apart?

What sets my work apart is the emphasis on genuine self-expression and personal growth. I don't merely instruct on tactics or exposure. I assist individuals in reconnection with their true selves and develop self-assurance from within.

My ventures connect purpose, expansion, and exposure in a manner that appears authentic and sincere. It's not about being noticed just for the sake of it. It's about being recognized for the correct reasons.

You are passionate about women. What inspired you to focus on women's empowerment?

It began with my personal experience. I have witnessed numerous women underestimating themselves or questioning their value, despite being highly skilled. I aimed to bring about a change.

I wished for women to understand that their voices are significant, their narratives hold value, and their existence is essential. Encouraging women to take initiative and embrace life to the fullest is what motivates me.

What do you credit your achievements to?

Belief, endurance, and individuals. My achievements have resulted from remaining humble, open to guidance, and being surrounded by people who have faith in me even when I have questioned my own abilities. I have gained the understanding of being present regularly, continuing to learn, and concentrating on making a difference rather than seeking recognition.

Achievement, to me, is not a final point, but an ongoing journey of development, helping others, and appreciation.

What motivates you to continue when things get difficult?

Objective. When challenges arise, I remind myself of my initial motivation and the people I am working for. I reflect on the impact my work has had, the women who have regained their self-assurance, and the communities that have formed. This sustains my determination. I have come to understand that difficult periods are an integral part of the process; they test you, yet they also enhance your resilience.

How can you combine family life with your job?

It's something I've had to acquire gradually. I no longer seek perfect equilibrium since life doesn't truly function that way. Rather, I strive for balance. Some periods are more focused on work, while others emphasize slowing down and being present with loved ones.

I have learned to focus on what is genuinely important in every moment and allow myself the flexibility to change as life progresses.

My family keeps me rooted, and my job brings me happiness, so I make an effort to care for both deliberately.

What guidance would you offer to a new business owner?

Begin from your current position. Do not wait for everything to be ideal before you start.

You'll come to understand things along the way. Maintain consistency, keep your curiosity alive, and remain willing to gain knowledge from setbacks. Establish a network of support and avoid measuring your path against others'.

Above all, understand your identity and your principles, as these will support you when challenges arise.

Where do you envision yourself in five years?

In five years, I envision myself taking the lead in organizing global events, growing Adelphe into an international organization, and guiding more women who are making a difference and influencing society.

I also notice a cutting-edge television and radio station that functions as both an innovative center and a learning environment for the upcoming wave of voices and narrative creators.

I envision creating a space that combines media, guidance, and community where individuals can gain the tools, motivation, and strength to express their voice with assurance and intention. The objective goes beyond achievement; it's about leaving a lasting legacy by establishing platforms that keep influencing lives even after I'm no longer in the spotlight.

What are your thoughts on women managing online businesses and how they operate them smoothly?

I find it amazing to witness so many women adopting online entrepreneurship. The digital world has enabled women to establish their brands, connect with international audiences, and develop opportunities that may not have been available in the past.

Numerous individuals are balancing family responsibilities, professional duties, and self-improvement, while still discovering innovative methods to engage with and support their audience.

Nevertheless, managing an online business is not always straightforward. It requires a well-thought-out plan, regular effort, and a strong vision. Women who succeed typically remain genuine, prepare in advance, and continue to educate themselves as the environment evolves.

What steps can women take to manage their online businesses smoothly?

Initially, it revolves around clarity. Understand your objective, your target audience, and the issue you are addressing. This forms the basis of any business, whether it operates online or offline.

Second, establish a framework. Implement processes for organizing content, monitoring clients, handling time, and maintaining regularity. While automation can assist, it is discipline that ensures everything functions smoothly.

Third, focus on personal development. Acquire knowledge in branding, interaction, and technological resources. The deeper your comprehension of online systems, the greater your authority will be.

Ultimately, remain genuine. The digital world values relationships, not flawlessness. Customers connect with individuals. When you prioritize offering value and maintaining honesty, all other aspects fall into place.

What brings you a sense of accomplishment as a business mentor?

The thing that brings me the greatest satisfaction is witnessing change take place. Observing an individual transition from doubt to self-assurance, from concealment to leadership, is the most fulfilling aspect of my role. When a client ultimately embraces her narrative, presents herself with courage, and begins drawing in suitable opportunities, it serves as a reminder of why I engage in this work.

The satisfaction I experience stems from the knowledge that I have assisted someone in trusting their abilities and creating a life or enterprise that truly represents their authentic self.

What guidance would you offer to young women starting their own businesses?

Begin even if you don't feel prepared. Striving for perfection will only slow you down. Concentrate on gaining knowledge, trying new things, and forming connections. Don't hesitate to make mistakes—each one will offer you a meaningful lesson.

Identify mentors that motivate and push you forward. Maintain dedication even if progress is gradual, and keep in mind that your unique perspective and personal narrative are your greatest strengths.

The world doesn't require another replica of someone else; it needs you—your authenticity, your imagination, and your bravery.

The Criminal Division 1 of the Chuncheon District Court (Presiding Judge Shim Hyun-geun) reversed the lower court's one-year prison sentence for A (65 years old) in a case where he was charged with obstructing justice and assault, lowering it to 10 months in prison along with a two-year probation period. The court also mandated 80 hours of community service.

The higher court provided the rationale for the reduction, saying, “Biting a police officer’s leg and inflicting harm while the officer was properly carrying out their duty to arrest a person suspected of wrongdoing is not a minor offense,” and also mentioned, “Nevertheless, we took into account that the defendant confessed to the crime and expressed regret during the appeal hearing.”

A was taken to court on allegations of biting a police officer's leg and causing harm to them during an investigation at a local police station. This occurred after he was arrested as a suspect in a case involving entering a taxi without paying, following a drinking session with friends at a bar in September of last year.

At that moment, even after being cautioned about potential arrest for refusing to share personal details with the police officer, A committed the offense while opposing the arrest.

In the initial trial, A claimed that "the police officer's arrest was illegal," yet the first instance court determined all charges to be valid and sentenced A to a one-year prison term. Nevertheless, the court opted not to impose a jail sentence in order to provide a chance for compensation to the victim.

The Suwon District Court's 11th Criminal Division (led by Presiding Judge Song Byung-hoon) on the 21st handed down a three-year and six-month prison sentence to former Rep. Ooh, who faced charges such as breaching the Act on the Aggravated Punishment of Specific Crimes (related to brokerage bribery) and violating the Attorney-at-Law Act, along with the seizure of roughly 888 million Korean won.

Nevertheless, the court found him not guilty of certain charges, such as the claimed receipt of about 98 million won and the promise to obtain 2.3 billion won in return for brokerage activities concerning the responsibilities of employees at the Korea Expressway Corporation, due to inadequate evidence, including the reliability of statements from involved parties, among other factors.

Former Representative Ooh was charged with receiving about 990 million won from Park, the head of construction company A, concerning the soundproof wall project on the Yeongdong Expressway. This occurred through a local housing association near Bopyeong Station in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, between 2021 and early this year.

It was discovered that he informed Park, "I will assist you in obtaining the construction project via Korea Expressway Corporation."

The court remarked, “The defendant received funds and items from business representatives by claiming he could facilitate requests and act as an intermediary concerning the responsibilities of the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, members of the National Assembly who are part of the Land, Infrastructure and Transport Committee, and employees of Korea Expressway Corporation, using his influence from his two prior terms as a member of the National Assembly.”

It stated, "These offenses not only erode public confidence in the effectiveness and impartiality of official duties but also increase the financial strain on the association's members involved in this matter, highlighting the seriousness of the violation."

The case became known when Park submitted a complaint to prosecutors after being removed from the project due to a disagreement with former Rep. Ooh regarding the lobbying budget.

Park has also faced separate charges for making secret payments of tens of millions of won to former Yongin Mayor Lee Jeong-moon and is currently being tried in the first instance court.