[On-site Video] "Make Sure This Never Happens Again" Illegal Real Estate Speculation... Citizens Demand Strict Punishment

[Asia Economy Reporter Han Seung-gon, PD Yoon Jin-geun] As the interim results of the investigation and prosecution into real estate speculation involving public officials, including Korea Land and Housing Corporation (hereinafter LH), were disclosed on the 2nd, citizens urged for accurate and stringent investigations.

Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum held a 'Real Estate Speculation Investigation and Prosecution Interim Results Briefing' at the Government Seoul Office in the afternoon.

At the briefing, Prime Minister Kim stated, "Through close cooperation between the prosecution and police, the confiscated and recovered real estate speculation profits amount to 90.8 billion KRW as of now."

The police announced at the briefing, "In the case of LH, which triggered this investigation, 151 people including 77 employees and 74 relatives and acquaintances were identified; so far, 4 have been arrested and 126 are still under investigation." Additionally, among 399 major investigation targets including members of the National Assembly, local government heads, and high-ranking public officials, 9 have been arrested and 287 are under investigation.

In response to the government’s announcement, citizens called for severe punishment. Citizen A said, "When real estate prices rise due to speculation, the damage is borne by the citizens," emphasizing, "All profits gained through speculation by LH and others must be fully recovered." They added, "I urge the government to take firm action so that such incidents never happen again."

Citizen B said, "I am also a university student, and from the standpoint of having to support a family, I think it is unfair for public officials to abuse their power." Regarding the investigation results, they said, "I find it hard to trust," and requested, "Please conduct the investigation thoroughly without deceiving the public in any way."

Citizen C said, "I understand that LH is also an institution under the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport," adding, "Employees of public institutions should have integrity and morality comparable to public officials, but I was quite disappointed to hear about the real estate speculation."