30 years sought for former President Park Geun-hye

The woman is accused of abuse of power and corruption. She reportedly accepted bribes worth 45 million euros. The confidant Choi sentenced to 20 years in prison this month.

Seoul (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Seoul Prosecutor is seeking a 30-year sentence for ex-President Park Geun-hye, accused of corruption and abuse of power. The request was read today in the Central District Court of Seoul by the public prosecutor, and also includes a fine of 118.5 billion won (about 90 million euros).

Last March, Park pleaded guilty at the South Korean Constitutional Court, which had confirmed the impeachment voted by parliament on December 9, 2016, removing her from the office. Since last April, she has been charged with 18 separate charges, including corruption, abuse of power and disclosure of state secrets. The story had created clamour in the country, which exploded in protests leading to her fall.

Today, prosecutors say the former president, in collusion with the confidant and friend Choi Soon-sil, has accepted a total of 59.2 billion won (about 45 million euros) from three South Korean companies - Samsung, Lotte and Sk - in exchange for political favors. Park is also accused of having forced 18 major brands to "donate" a total of 77.4 billion won to two ambiguous foundations led by Choi. Two weeks ago, her friend was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Park was the first South Korean president, elected democratically, to be removed from the office. The Court should rule next March or April.

• South Korea
• park geun-hye
• choi soon-sil
• economy
• corruption
• abuse of power
• power of attorney