The legal battle between former ADOR CEO Min Hee-jin and Source Music has taken a significant turn as KakaoTalk messages have been accepted as evidence. This development is expected to accelerate the proceedings.
On the morning of the 22nd, the 12th Civil Division of the Seoul District Court held the third hearing in the 5 billion won damages lawsuit filed by Source Music against Min Hee-jin.
The court announced its decision regarding the KakaoTalk messages, which were a major point of contention in the previous hearing. The court stated, "It is difficult to consider the KakaoTalk messages as a violation of the Protection of Communications Secrets Act," and added, "Considering various circumstances, we find them admissible as evidence."
The court further clarified, "While public trials are the norm and the contents may be disclosed through oral arguments, unnecessary public presentations will not be conducted."
Min Hee-jin's side argued, "It is inappropriate to cite KakaoTalk contents in a public court. Communication secrecy is a constitutional right, and it is not significantly related to this case." They requested, "Isn't it problematic to mention KakaoTalk contents during arguments? Please guide the proceedings appropriately."
The court responded, "There are regulations for public arguments under civil law, and it is unreasonable to demand non-disclosure without knowing the content of future arguments." They added, "Since the evidence has already been recognized, how the material will be used during the arguments will be determined according to procedures."
Source Music's legal representative, Kim & Chang, countered, "The defendant previously read the KakaoTalk messages in front of the media and held a press conference, publicly criticizing us. Now, they are requesting restrictions, claiming it is unfavorable. This is not fair. Wasn't it the defendant who first proposed the KakaoTalk presentation?" They continued, "Even if the court publicly cites the KakaoTalk messages as evidence, it is merely a legitimate exercise of the right to argue."
Previously, Min Hee-jin's side argued that "accepting KakaoTalk messages as evidence and conducting public presentations is inappropriate." They contended, "Communication secrecy is a constitutional right, and disclosing content not directly related to the case is unjust," challenging the acceptance of the KakaoTalk evidence.
The next hearing is scheduled for November 7th.
Choi Ji-ye, Ten Asia Reporter wisdomart@tenasia.co.kr