The de facto head of Samsung Group, Lee Jae-yong, was released early Friday after serving seven months in prison on corruption charges, according to South Korean media reports.
The 53-year-old businessman made a public apology as he left a detention center in Yuang, 25 kilometers south of the capital, Seoul, where his supporters, as well as protesters, were waiting for his exit.
"I apologize for causing so much concern to people," Lee was quoted by South Korea´s Yonhap News Agency as saying in brief remarks to reporters. I am well aware of those fears, criticisms and expectations of me.”
Li was among the more than 800 prisoners released today, Friday, to celebrate
Liberation Day , which falls on August 15.
Justice Minister Park Beom-ki said the decision to grant Lee an early pardon was made in consideration of the country´s economic situation.
