Choco Pie theft case ignites public outcry; prosecution signals leniency in appeal
A man put on trial for eating snacks worth just 1,050 won ($0.77) without permission — a case now dubbed the “Choco Pie theft” incident — is stirring nationwide debate in Korea. Critics argue that dragging someone to criminal court over such a trivial amount is an excessive application of the law, with some even comparing it to a modern-day “Les Misérables” scenario. Following a guilty verdict in the first trial, the case is now under appeal. Facing mounting criticism, prosecutors have hinted that they may consider leniency in the second trial. “We will look into what the prosecution can do within reason at the sentencing stage,” Shin Dae-kyung, the new chief prosecutor at Jeonju District Prosecutors’ Office, said at a Monday press briefing. Midnight snack or crime? The incident occurred around 4 a.m. on Jan. 18, 2024, at a factory in Wanju, North Jeolla Province. A security guard was accused of taking a Choco Pie, which retails for about 400 won, and a custard cake, valued at about 650 won, from the office refrigerator of a partner logistics firm without permission. The
Sep 23, 2025By Hankookilbo
