Former AOA member Kwon Mina has opened up about the result of a sexual assault case from 18 years ago and shared her current feelings after a long legal process.
On May 19, Kwon Mina posted a long message on Instagram and wrote, “Today is the day I end a long journey that lasted more than 4 years.”
She explained that when she first prepared for the trial, she had hope that the offender could face a heavier punishment if both rape and injury charges were recognized.
However, she said the second trial ruling recognized rape but did not recognize injury, meaning the statute of limitations made further punishment difficult.
Kwon Mina shared, “From my position as the victim, whether it was guilty or not guilty was important.”
She added that she still finds meaning in the fact that one charge was recognized, saying, “It has been proven that the person is a bad person, so I am trying to be satisfied with the current result.”
She also spoke to other victims, saying that 18 years ago, she had no choice but to stay quiet because of the social atmosphere at the time.
She said, “I hope other victims do not blame themselves or hide. It is not something to be ashamed of, so I hope they find the courage to speak up.”
Kwon Mina thanked the police officers and prosecutors who helped her through the process, saying she was “truly sorry and thankful” to them.
She also revealed that she is preparing for another lawsuit and admitted that she sometimes feels tired and powerless. Still, she said she is trying to focus on healing for now, adding, “I am only tired for a moment, so please do not worry too much.”
Kwon Mina ended by saying, “I feel like I finished one assignment, so I feel relieved now,” and added that she will continue working through the other issues ahead of her.
