Jeonju: An appellate court has acquitted a security worker accused of "stealing" two snacks valued at 1,050 won (US$0.72) from a fridge at his workplace last year, overturning a decision that had sparked public outcry across the country. The Jeonju District Court delivered the verdict to the 41-year-old, reversing a previous ruling that had imposed a fine of 50,000 won.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the initial sentence issued in May had provoked widespread public indignation and prompted discussions on the justice system's role, with critics questioning the prosecution's decision to bring the case to court. The security worker had been charged with consuming a 400 won Choco Pie and a 650 won Custard cake without permission at a logistics company in Wanju, located about 190 kilometers south of Seoul, in January of the previous year. However, the appellate court noted that testimony from 39 drivers and security personnel indicated that taking snacks from the fridge had never been an issue before, as permission was generally given by the drivers.

"Based on such circumstances, it is difficult to recognize the defendant's intent to steal at the time," the court remarked. In a statement through his labor union, the security worker expressed relief and gratitude for the restoration of his honor and that of his colleagues. "It was difficult for me to accept a situation where a practice maintained over decades based on mutual kindness suddenly became a crime," he stated, expressing hope that no other workers would face a similar predicament.

The worker attributed his acquittal to the compassion of the bench and the public's interest in the case. Meanwhile, the Jeonju District Prosecutors Office announced that it will review the ruling and consider whether to file an appeal. Last month, prosecutors had convened a civic committee to evaluate their actions in the case, and based on the committee's advice, they had sought a suspended sentence for the defendant during the appellate trial's final hearing. With his acquittal, the worker is expected to retain his job.