Chun Ki-won, a 67-year-old South Korean pastor, who was once hailed as a hero for his efforts in smuggling out hundreds of North Koreans, has been sentenced to five years in prison for sexually abusing teenage defectors at his boarding school in Seoul.
Previously regarded as a savior figure, Chun was often dubbed as an “Asian Schindler” for his perceived role in aiding those fleeing the North Korean regime.
However, his image has now been tarnished as he was found guilty of molesting six North Korean teenagers, including defectors residing in the dormitories of his alternative school under the Durihana mission.
Although Chun denied the accusations, the court deemed the evidence provided by the victims as incontrovertible.
Judge Seung-jeong Kim of the Seoul Central District Court emphasized the consistency in the victims’ statements, stating that some details could only be known through firsthand experience.
Chun, who established Durihana, a prominent NGO in South Korea assisting North Korean defectors, has claimed to have facilitated the escape of over 1,000 individuals from the Kim family’s authoritarian regime over the past 25 years.
Despite being condemned by Pyongyang for his activities, Chun’s work garnered international attention and was compared to that of Oskar Schindler.
His arrest and subsequent conviction have shocked South Korea, where his trial received extensive coverage.
Media outlets portrayed Chun’s fall from grace, depicting him in court attire, escorted by guards—a stark contrast to his previous heroic image.
Source-BBC
