https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-08-25/samsung-heir-sentenced-to-five-years-prison-on-graft-conviction

The trial, part of a bigger corruption scandal that brought down South Korea’s president, transfixed the nation as it shone a spotlight on the close ties between chaebol business groups and the political elite. Prosecutors had sought 12 years in prison for the 49-year-old billionaire, whose lawyer said he would appeal. Any sentence of more than 3 years can’t be suspended.

The judgment reflects a greater willingness by South Korea to break the ties between the wealthy and those in power. In the past, a long list of business leaders, including Lee’s father, were convicted for corrupt behavior only to be let off easy. The younger Lee is unlikely to enjoy such leniency. The Samsung scion, who golfed and traveled extensively to foster ties with tech executives, mostly kept a blank expression as the verdict was read.