The Supreme Prosecutor's Office in South Korea has decided to withdraw its appeal concerning allegations of illegal cash envelopes distributed during the Democratic Party's leadership election. This decision follows the Supreme Court's ruling which acquitted former member Lee Seong-man, affirming that crucial evidence for the case was obtained unlawfully. The withdrawal affects three Democratic Party members—current lawmaker Heo Jong-sik and former lawmakers Yoon Kwan-seok and Im Jong-seong—who were previously indicted based on these allegations.

On December 18 of last year, an appellate court overturned the lower court's findings, declaring the three members not guilty by emphasizing that the main evidence, a concealed phone recording submitted voluntarily by a former party official, was deemed inadmissible. This set a significant legal precedent, as the appellate court ruled that much of the evidence used in the first trial was improperly obtained and therefore lacked legitimacy. This ruling not only cleared the involved members but also led to the reconsideration of ongoing cases related to similar charges.

The Supreme Prosecutor's Office articulated that their decision to withdraw the appeals was based on these legal insights, recognizing the implications of the Supreme Court's ruling that dismissed the core accusations against the Democratic Party members. Furthermore, the case reflects broader issues regarding campaign finance practices in South Korea, particularly amidst the political scandal surrounding the Democratic Party's fundraising and electioneering methods. As investigations continue into unlawful campaign financing, this decision may shape the future legislative landscape and the Democratic Party's internal dynamics, raising questions about political accountability and reform.