South Korean Judge Found Dead After Sentencing Decision
South Korea's former first lady Kim Keon Hee (L) arrives for her first trial hearing on corruption charges at the Seoul Central District Court in Seoul on September 24, 2025. Kim Keon Hee, wife of jailed former South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, was indicted August 29 on charges including bribery, stock-market rigging, and accepting luxury gifts worth more than $50,000, a special prosecution team said. (Photo by Chung Sung-Jun / POOL / AFP)
A South Korean judge, Shin Jong-o, has been found dead at the Seoul High Court, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
Judge Shin had recently drawn national attention after increasing the prison sentence of former first lady Kim Keon Hee in a high-profile ruling that sparked widespread public debate and political reactions across the country.
According to initial reports, Shin’s body was discovered within court premises in Seoul. Emergency responders were called to the scene, but he was pronounced dead shortly after. Officials have not yet disclosed the cause of death, and an investigation is currently underway.
The judiciary and government officials have expressed shock over the incident, describing Shin as a respected figure known for his firm and meticulous approach to legal matters. His recent ruling in the Kim case had placed him under intense public scrutiny, though authorities have not indicated any direct link between the case and his death.
Police say further details will be released following a full investigation.
