Fraud Convict with Confirmed Prison Sentence Inducted into Hall of Fame

It has been belatedly revealed that an individual who has been confirmed to serve a prison sentence for fraud, and is currently incarcerated, was permanently inducted into a regional Hall of Fame as a member of the "Honor Society," a group for high-value donors. The Hall of Fame commemorates those who have donated 100 million won or more, or pledged donations within five years, and is introduced as a "gathering of social leaders." Mr. A joined the Honor Society in June 2021, paid 100 million won in full in 2023, and had his name inscribed in the Hall of Fame.

Mr. A was indicted on charges including fraud in December 2020, received a prison sentence in February 2024, and the Supreme Court confirmed a 3-year prison sentence in November of the same year. Furthermore, Mr. A was separately tried for embezzling around 6 billion won through fraudulent service contracts related to a private park development project between 2021 and December 2023, for which he received a 4-year prison sentence in the first instance.

The Gwangju branch of the Love Fruit Society stated that it is practically difficult to constantly monitor and manage the criminal cases or trial progress of its members. Upon learning of the situation, the organization plans to internally review whether the case meets the criteria for disqualification or withdrawal. While regulations exist for members who bring disrepute, a thorough review is needed to determine if this specific case falls under those provisions.

Upon learning of this fact, criticism emerged from local residents. One resident commented, "I was surprised to see the name while looking at the Hall of Fame with respect," adding, "Considering the honor of other members, shouldn't action have been taken sooner?"

The Gwangju Love Fruit Society stated that Mr. A joined in 2021 and paid the 100 million won in full in 2023, and the donations have been fully distributed. They reiterated their position that it is practically difficult to constantly monitor and manage the criminal cases or trial progress of members.

Contrary to the Gwangju Love Fruit Society's explanation, other regions have instances where members who caused controversy due to criminal activities had their memberships revoked. In the past, the Daegu Community Chest of Korea revoked the membership of an individual who had pledged to donate 360 million won over five years and joined the Honor Society, after the member was arrested on charges of investment fraud. The decision was made following an internal review.