By Riffat Kausar
Scandinavian News Finland
A South Korean security guard has finally been acquitted after a two-year legal battle over taking a Choco Pie from a company fridge.
The unusual case began in January 2024, when the night-shift guard grabbed a snack, only to be reported by a manager who had noticed the act on surveillance cameras.
What Happened:
- The guard faced dismissal and a heavy fine, and the case dragged on for almost 18 months.
- During the investigation, 39 employees admitted they had been doing the same for years. It turned out that letting night guards take snacks was an unwritten company tradition.
- Despite this, the police initially refused to close the case, and in May 2025, the guard was found guilty and fined 50,000 won. The judge stated that the morning-shift driver had no authority to allow sharing corporate snacks.
Public Reaction:
- The verdict caused national outrage, with protests demanding justice for the security guard.
- Government officials intervened, leading to a case review.
- Ultimately, the court acquitted the guard, allowing him to return to work.
- Prosecutors are now considering whether to appeal the decision to the Supreme Court.
Why This Matters:
- The case highlights the sometimes absurd lengths of corporate bureaucracy in South Korea.
- It shows the impact of public opinion and social media in influencing legal decisions.
- The incident has sparked debate about employee rights and workplace fairness, even over minor everyday actions.
South Korean guard acquitted after two-year court case over taking a Choco Pie from company fridge.
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