President Kim on Facebook: "Prosecutors requested clarification... I am not related to the Lime case"
[Asia Economy Reporter Yoo Byung-don] The prosecution is launching an investigation into allegations of political lobbying related to the 'Lime Asset Management scandal.'
The Criminal Division 6 of the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office (Chief Prosecutor Kim Rak-hyun) recently notified Kim Young-chun, Secretary General of the National Assembly, to appear and is currently coordinating the investigation schedule.
On the same day, Secretary General Kim stated on his Facebook, "The prosecution requested clarification regarding the Lime case," adding, "I clearly state that I am not involved in the Lime case."
It is known that former Chairman Kim testified to the prosecution that he contacted Secretary General Kim through Lee Kang-se, CEO of Star Mobility, who was identified as a political lobbying channel. The prosecution is investigating the possibility that former Chairman Kim directly or indirectly delivered lobbying funds to Secretary General Kim.
Besides Secretary General Kim, other figures from the ruling party are also under investigation by the prosecution. Earlier, the prosecution summoned Democratic Party lawmaker Ki Dong-min as a suspect for questioning.
During the investigation, former Chairman Kim reportedly testified that he handed over cash envelopes containing tens of millions of won to lawmaker Ki’s camp during the 2016 general election campaign and gifted a high-end suit as a congratulatory present after the election.
Lawmaker Ki’s camp has denied receiving any money or goods from former Chairman Kim and has distanced themselves from the Lime case. However, they admitted to receiving the suit but claimed there was no quid pro quo involved.
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