Andrew Suh, 50 (Korean name Seung Mo Suh), who has been imprisoned for over 30 years, was released from prison on January 26, benefiting from a new state law that grants retroactive sentencing credits for participation in rehabilitative programs. Until January 26, Suh was serving an 80-year sentence for the fatal shooting of his sister’s boyfriend in 1993, when he was just 19 years old.
The Korean-American community played a significant role in Suh’s release. His clemency movement was primarily initiated by members of Korean American churches, who are central to the Korean immigrant community. The unwavering faith and support from the Korean-American community have been crucial in Suh’s journey toward repentance and seeking forgiveness.
He also shared his future aspirations, noting that he plans to continue his college education and work with troubled youths in his community.
The Chicago Tribune reports, “A new state law that became effective on January 1 allows for retroactive sentencing credits, significantly reducing incarceration time for qualifying inmates. Suh’s attorney estimated that he had earned nearly 4,000 days of credit due to his achievements while incarcerated.”
BY JUNHAN PARK [park.junhan@koreadaily.com]
