The Seoul Western District Court ruled to let her off with only a fine, citing the defendant's "deep regret" for her wrongdoings and also taking into account that she has no prior criminal record.
The sentence came about several months after the 42-year-old was caught driving under the influence after hitting a taxi while attempting to change lanes in Itaewon, Seoul in October last year. The taxi driver sustained minor injuries from the accident, but the DUI fender-bender sparked controversy as it was also revealed later that she has apparently accumulated at least a dozen traffic fines including parking violations.
Separately, she was also accused of illegally operating a lodging business using multiple properties and villas in Seoul and Jeju Island without obtaining permits or proper paperwork, while raking in huge profits over a lengthy period.
Prosecutors, who had sought a one-year prison sentence, will decide whether to file an appeal after a review.
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