Prosecution Overturns Non-Referral Decision... 'Sixth Sense' Producer Jung Chulmin Indicted for Forcible Molestation

Victim's Side States: "No Remorse from the Perpetrator... Settlement Is Not an Option"

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Jung Cheolmin, the producer behind the popular variety show 'Sixth Sense,' has ultimately been brought to trial on charges of forcibly molesting a junior producer.

On March 3, according to lawyer Lee Eunui, the legal representative for the victim, the prosecution reviewed the objection filed by the victim's side against the Seoul Mapo Police Station's decision not to refer the case to prosecution. On February 25, the prosecution indicted producer Jung Cheolmin on charges of forcible molestation.

Last year on December 31, the police acknowledged that physical contact had occurred, but concluded there was insufficient evidence to prove intent to molest, resulting in a decision of no charges (case not forwarded to prosecution). However, following additional investigations by the prosecution involving both the complainant and the accused, the prosecution decided to indict producer Jung on charges of forcible molestation.

According to a statement released by lawyer Lee, the incident did not end at mere physical contact. Producer Jung is said to have repeatedly engaged in molestation despite the victim's clear refusal on August 15 of last year, and then abruptly removed the victim from the production team on August 20, immediately after the victim recognized the issue.

The victim reported the incident to the police immediately after it occurred and also filed a complaint with their employer, CJ ENM, citing workplace sexual harassment. In response, ahead of the broadcast of 'Sixth Sense: City Tour 2,' CJ ENM acknowledged part of the workplace sexual harassment allegations against producer Jung and took disciplinary action.

The victim's side also expressed deep regret regarding the flood of media reports that followed the police's decision not to forward the case this past January. Lawyer Lee pointed out, "At the time, many entertainment media outlets reported with certainty that the accused was 'cleared of charges,' even disclosing his real name, whereas articles presenting the victim’s perspective kept the accused anonymous, highlighting a severe asymmetry in reporting."

In particular, she emphasized, "Even after producer Jung received internal disciplinary action, the act of distributing press releases that disparaged the victim or pledged collective action with the production team through the media inflicted irreparable secondary harm on the victim."

The victim's side made it clear that they are not considering any form of settlement with producer Jung. Lawyer Lee stated, "The perpetrator has shown no sign of remorse, and the psychological and professional pain suffered by the victim is immeasurable," adding, "We will pursue a thorough legal battle in court to establish the facts of the molestation and the extent of the damage, and to ensure appropriate accountability."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.