Rival parties have issued mixed responses to a court decision on Wednesday that handed a four-year prison term to the wife of former Justice Minister Cho Kuk in an academic fraud scandal.

Ruling Democratic Party Spokesperson Shin Yeong-dae said in a statement on Wednesday that the verdict is "surprisingly harsh."  

He also expressed hope that the “truth” will be revealed in the remaining trial process. 

The main opposition People Power Party, on the other hand, welcomed the ruling, saying justice has prevailed. 

PPP Floor Spokesperson Choi Hyung-du said the time for truth and justice has begun and described the verdict as a blow by an “iron mace” on those who claim to be perpetually right, while blaming others as being always wrong.