[Yonhap News Photo]
South Korea's ousted ex-president Park Geun-hye challenged her extended detention as political retaliation, insisting she has endured a mental and physical pain enough for six months behind bars, as her lawyers resigned en masse in protest.
At a hearing Monday, Park read her first open statement in court, saying her legal battle has become meaningless. After Park read out her statement, her seven-member defense team boycotted court hearings by submitting a letter of resignation.
"I've come to the conclusion that it's meaningless to believe that the court will act in accordance with the Constitution and conscience, despite the political winds from outside and public pressure," she said.
Last week, a criminal court in Seoul approved a fresh arrest warrant, allowing prosecutors to extend Park's detention. The initial arrest warrant was valid until October 16. Since the first hearing was held on May 23, Park has been dragged into the courtroom almost four times a week, although she sometimes skipped court hearings, citing an ache in the toe on her left foot.
"I have been in terrible and disastrous times for the last six months of trials four times a week. I have lost my reputation and life because of my belief in one person that ended up in unimaginable betrayal," Park said.
"It was difficult for me to accept the court's decision," she said. "I and my lawyers could not but feel helpless."
Park was indicted for abusing her status and power to coerce businessmen to donate money to nonprofit foundations controlled by her crony, Choi Soon-sil, in return for business favors.
She has denied charges of bribery, abuse of authority, coercion and leaking government secrets. She was ousted after the constitutional court upheld her impeachment on March 10, accusing her of betraying the confidence of voters.
In her statement, Park insisted she was not involved in any influence peddling and other illegal activities while in office. "I hope political retaliation in the name of the rule of law will be punctuated with me," she said, calling for mercy to government officials and businessmen who are on trial because of her.
Park said she would never give up, although she expected a "harder and more difficult" period.
reporter
Lim Chang-won
cwlim34@ajunews.com
