25.11.14.Today News : Former Short-Track Star Kim Dong-sung Faces Prison Over 90 Million KRW in Unpaid Child Support

Former Short-Track Star Kim Dong-sung Faces Prison Over 90 Million KRW in Unpaid Child Support

📍Once a National Hero, Kim Pleads for Leniency Amid Financial Struggles and Labor Work

Former South Korean short-track speed skating champion Kim Dong-sung faces a four-month prison sentence for failing to pay nearly 90 million KRW in child support to his ex-wife. Prosecutors argue that his prolonged negligence caused significant harm to his children, while Kim claims financial hardship and asks for another chance to rebuild his life.

Former short track national team member Kim Dong-sung appeared in court over approximately 90 million won in unpaid child support to his ex-wife.

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🔹Prosecutors Seek Four-Month Sentence for Unpaid Child Support
During a sentencing hearing held on the 14th at Suwon District Court, prosecutors requested a four-month prison term for Kim, who was charged with violating the Act on the Implementation and Support of Child Support. They argued that Kim “failed to fulfill his parental responsibilities without justifiable reasons, causing economic and emotional harm to the children.”

Kim divorced his wife in 2018 and has failed to pay monthly child support of 1.5 million KRW per child since 2019, totaling around 90 million KRW.

🔹Kim Apologizes: “I Was Wrong… But My Life Has Been Extremely Difficult”
In his final statement, Kim admitted fault, saying: “It is true that I failed to pay the child support. I am now working as a day laborer and struggling to survive. I plan to pay little by little.”

He added that he is trying to regain a coaching license to rebuild his career in sports.

🔹Defense: “Not Malicious — He Plans to Pay When Able”
Kim’s defense attorney claimed there was no malicious intent, emphasizing his harsh financial conditions, and appealed for leniency.

However, the judge questioned why Kim did not pay even a small portion over the years, stating that “financial hardship does not fully explain complete non-payment.”

🔹Ex-Wife Requests Harsh Punishment
Kim’s ex-wife submitted a petition urging strict punishment, saying that the long-term unpaid support caused significant hardship for the children.

🔹A Fallen Olympic Hero
Kim once stood as one of Korea’s greatest short-track athletes, winning gold medals in multiple international competitions. But after retirement, he faced financial struggles, loss of pension eligibility due to overseas residency issues, and a series of controversies that tarnished his image.

🔹Sentencing Set for Next Month
The court will announce its verdict on the afternoon of the 10th next month. If imprisoned, Kim’s plan to return as a coach will likely be delayed further.

One-line summary : Prosecutors sought a four-month prison term for Kim Dong-sung over 90 million KRW in unpaid child support, while Kim pleaded for leniency citing severe financial hardship.