On June 23, 2025, Song Young-gil, the former leader of the Sonamoo Party and ex-head of the Democratic Party, was granted bail by the Seoul High Court Criminal Division 1, marking a significant turn in his ongoing legal battle over allegations of illegal political funding. After being legally detained for 166 days following his re-arrest on January 8, 2025, Song was released from the Seoul Detention Center under stringent conditions, allowing him to face his appeal trial in a non-detained state.
The court’s decision to grant bail came with a series of strict stipulations. Song was required to post a bail bond of 50 million won and adhere to residence restrictions. He must seek permission before any overseas travel and submit sworn statements ensuring his attendance at all court proceedings. Additionally, the court imposed a prohibition on contacting individuals connected to the controversial 'money envelope' and 'Peace and Problem Research Institute' cases, including notable figures such as Lee Sung-man, Yoon Kwan-seok, Heo Jong-sik, Im Jong-sung, Park Yong-ha, and Park Yong-soo.
Song’s legal troubles stem from accusations related to the Democratic Party’s leadership election in May 2021, where he was indicted for his involvement in distributing approximately 66.5 million won in money envelopes to current lawmakers and regional chapter leaders, allegedly to secure votes. This case, often referred to as the 'money envelope' scandal, became a focal point of political controversy. However, in the initial trial, the court acquitted Song of these specific allegations, citing insufficient evidentiary value in the key audio recordings presented by former Democratic Party deputy secretary-general Lee Jung-geun.
More damning, however, were the charges related to illegal political funds amounting to 763 million won. Prosecutors alleged that from January 2020 to December 2021, Song funneled these funds through his external support organization, the 'Peace and Problem Research Institute'—a group accused of acting as a conduit for unlawful donations from seven businessmen. The first trial found Song guilty on these counts, resulting in a two-year prison sentence in January 2025.
Throughout his detention, Song remained defiant and hopeful. Upon his release, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to the court for granting bail, stating, "I am thankful to the court for allowing me to receive the trial in a non-detained state. I will do my best to prepare my defense and aim for an innocent verdict in the appeal." His remarks reflected not only relief but also a commitment to vigorously contest the charges against him.
Song also candidly shared the emotional toll of his incarceration. He remarked, "When Yoon Suk-yeol was detained here, it brought me some comfort, but after his release, my own imprisonment became very difficult to endure." He went further, controversially wishing for former President Yoon Suk-yeol and his wife Kim Keon-hee to be detained at the Seoul Detention Center "as soon as possible." This pointed statement underscored the intense political undercurrents surrounding the case.
Supporters gathered outside the detention center during Song’s release, witnessing a visibly changed figure. Observers noted his hair had turned noticeably gray, a physical testament to the strain he endured. Yet, Song’s spirit appeared unbroken as he pledged to fight on amid a politically charged atmosphere.
He also reflected on his motivations during the pre-election period, revealing that he had submitted three petitions to the court seeking release, driven by a desire to contribute to a change in government. "Before the presidential election, I was eager to help bring about a new administration," he said, "and after the election victory on June 3, I felt more at peace, knowing that my release would come eventually."
Song’s legal saga illustrates the complexities of South Korea’s political landscape, where allegations of vote-buying and illicit funding frequently surface amid fierce party rivalries. The 'money envelope' scandal, while dismissed in Song’s case due to evidentiary issues, remains a potent symbol of the challenges facing democratic processes.
The court’s decision to grant bail also signals a nuanced approach to justice, balancing the severity of the charges with the rights of the accused to a fair trial. Bail conditions are carefully designed to prevent interference with ongoing investigations and to ensure Song’s compliance with legal procedures.
Looking ahead, Song’s appeal trial is set to continue, with the next hearing scheduled for July 23, 2025. Legal experts anticipate a rigorous defense as Song and his legal team seek to overturn the conviction related to illegal political funding. His release on bail affords him the opportunity to engage more fully with his defense strategy, a critical factor given the gravity of the charges and the political implications of the case.
This episode also sheds light on the broader issue of political financing in South Korea, where the line between legitimate support and corruption often blurs. The use of external organizations like the 'Peace and Problem Research Institute' to channel funds highlights systemic vulnerabilities that lawmakers and watchdog groups continue to grapple with.
Despite the setbacks, Song remains optimistic. He told reporters upon his release, "I will dedicate myself to this appeal and hope to clear my name. I want to return to public life and contribute positively to our country." His words resonate with a narrative of resilience amid adversity, reflecting the high stakes involved in political accountability.
As Song Young-gil navigates this turbulent chapter, the eyes of the nation remain fixed on the unfolding legal drama, which encapsulates the ongoing struggle over transparency, justice, and power in South Korean politics.
