South Korean Accused in Cambodia Drug Smuggling Case Appeals for Reduced Sentence

A South Korean man, sentenced to 30 years in prison for smuggling over 2 kilograms of methamphetamine from Cambodia to South Korea in 2024, has appealed for a reduced sentence at the Phnom Penh Court of Appeal. The court heard the case on August 3, 2026. Kim Jang Eun, 43, and his wife Lee Hyeran, 40, both South Korean nationals, were initially convicted by the Phnom Penh Municipal Court on November 27, 2024, receiving 30-year prison sentences and fines of 80 million riels each. They were charged with illegal possession, trafficking, and transportation of narcotics under Article 40 of the Law on Drug Control. The couple was apprehended on March 3, 2025, at Phnom Penh International Airport by a joint task force from the General Department of Customs and Excise and the Anti-Drug Department. They were attempting to board a flight to South Korea. Authorities seized approximately 1290.79 grams of methamphetamine (ICE) from Kim and 987.42 grams of ketamine from Lee, totaling 2279.21 grams of illicit drugs. Following their conviction, the couple appealed the sentences, deeming them too severe. Tragically, Lee passed away in prison due to a serious illness. During the appeal hearing, Kim admitted to his involvement in transporting the drugs, stating they were hired by an unknown foreign man to settle a debt. He highlighted his wife's death in prison and expressed a desire to return to care for his two elderly parents. Kim pleaded with the Court of Appeal for leniency, requesting a sentence of 20 years or less so he could reunite with his parents before their passing. The Phnom Penh Court of Appeal is scheduled to announce its verdict in mid-August 2026. Source: CEN Cambodia