Jeonju: An appellate court on Thursday acquitted a security worker of "stealing" two snacks worth 1,050 won (US$0.72) from a fridge at his office last year, reversing a ruling that has prompted public outcry nationwide. The Jeonju District Court handed down the verdict to the 41-year-old, overturning an initial ruling that sentenced him to a fine of 50,000 won.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the sentence in May drew public outrage and prompted questions about the role of law, with some criticizing the prosecution for taking the case to court. The defendant was charged with taking a 400 won Choco Pie-a chocolate-covered marshmallow-filled snack-and a 650 won Custard cake from the logistics company in Wanju, about 190 kilometers south of Seoul, and eating them without permission in January last year.

The prosecution earlier convened a civic committee to review whether the steps it took in the case were appropriate. With the acquittal, the worker is expected to be able to stay in his job.