Lee Hae-in’s Fans Protest Against 3-Year Suspension

A truck appeared in front of the National Assembly building in Yeouido, as fans of figure skater Lee Hae-in took part in a public campaign to express their sympathy for her unfair situation.

Lee Hae-in was effectively sentenced to retirement due to a three-year suspension, which her fans claim was a result of poor investigations by the skating federation and negligence by the sports council.

The fans demanded a full investigation by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, claiming that 19-year-old Lee Hae-in was sexually harassed.

In just two days, 1,000 people have signed statements expressing sympathy for Lee Hae-in’s situation.

The Incident

Lee Hae-in received a three-year ban for allegedly sexually harassing junior player A during a training camp in Italy last May.

However, Lee Hae-in’s appeal that it was not a forced molestation but an expression of affection between secret lovers was not accepted.

Lee Hae-in has decided to argue right and wrong in court, and has applied for a temporary injunction to suspend the disciplinary action.

Player A’s Statement

Player A, who was identified as a victim, later revealed that he had consistently said during the investigation that he hoped Lee Hae-in would receive leniency.

Although the disciplinary process in the sport has ended, the legal battle has only just begun, and fans feel that the punishment is harsh.

Public Reaction

The mood has changed since last June, just after disciplinary action was taken by the ice skating federation, when player A drew a line with comments such as ‘I was very embarrassed and surprised’ and ‘I started psychiatric treatment’.

The fallout from the Lee Hae-in incident is expected to continue for now, as fans feel that the punishment is harsh.

This is Eunji Jo from YTN.

Photographer: Kwak Yong-joo

Video editing: Lee Ga-eun

Subtitle News: Lee Do-hyung