Translator Hwang Seok-hee's Past Sexual Offenses Stir Controversy

Translator and author Hwang Seok-hee is at the center of controversy due to past sexual offense convictions. It has been revealed that during the trial, the court did not accept the defense's claim of 'mental incapacity due to intoxication.'

On the 13th, a lawyer appearing on YTN's 'Case X File' stated, "The crime of indecent assault causing injury carries a heavy sentence of life imprisonment or at least five years under criminal law," adding, "Since it involved not just indecent assault but also injury to the victim, a prison sentence is generally imposed."

The lawyer further explained, "Despite this, the court's decision to grant a suspended sentence was likely influenced by a settlement with the victims and the fact that Hwang had no prior criminal record."

He added, "However, Hwang's claim of mental incapacity due to intoxication was not accepted by the court."

Previously, on the 30th, a media outlet reported that Hwang Seok-hee received suspended sentences for three sexual offenses in 2005 and 2014. According to the report, in 2005, Hwang assaulted a woman, A, near Kangwon National University in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province, at around 6:30 PM, by hugging her from behind and touching her body, causing her to fall. He then assaulted A's sister, B, by hitting her jaw and pulling her hair.

The offenses continued. About 30 minutes later, Hwang attacked another woman, C, in the same area, attempting forced physical contact, and punched C's friend, D, who tried to intervene. All four victims sustained injuries requiring two weeks of medical treatment, and Hwang was charged with indecent assault causing injury and night-time joint assault.

In 2014, Hwang was also charged with quasi-rape against a student and received suspended sentences for both incidents.

Regarding the incidents, Hwang stated, "I am currently reviewing the related matters with my lawyer. If there are any inaccuracies, unverified information, or expressions beyond legal judgment in the reports, I will consider corrections and responses."

Hwang Seok-hee is a renowned film translator known for translating Hollywood blockbusters such as 'Carol,' 'Deadpool,' and 'X-Men.' Due to the controversy, online sales of his book 'Misinterpreted Words,' published in May last year, have been halted, and TV shows like tvN's 'You Quiz on the Block' and MBC's 'The Manager' have made related videos private.

Reporter Da-yeon Jeong, Ten Asia light@tenasia.co.kr