Police Summon JoongAng Ilbo Editorial Writer Over Allegations of Bribery by 'Fake Seafood Businessman'

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Tae-min] A JoongAng Ilbo editorial board member suspected of receiving money and valuables from Kim (43, in custody), who impersonated a fisheries businessman, was summoned by the police.

According to the police on the 24th, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Violent Crime Investigation Unit has been questioning former JoongAng Ilbo editorial board member Lee since 10 a.m. today. Kim, who is on trial for fraud amounting to around 10 billion won, testified in a previous police investigation that he gave money and valuables to prosecutors, police executives, and journalists.

Based on this testimony, the police have booked Kim and seven others on charges of violating the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, and are summoning influential figures suspected of receiving money and valuables for questioning one by one. Searches and seizures have also been conducted on some suspects.

Earlier this month, the police summoned and questioned Deputy Chief Prosecutor Lee (former chief prosecutor of the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office) on the 11th, former Chosun Ilbo editorial board member Lee Dong-hoon on the 13th, former Pohang Southern Police Station Chief Superintendent Bae (suspended) and TV Chosun anchor Eom Seong-seop on the 17th.

The police are also expected to notify former special prosecutor Park Young-soo, who was booked on suspicion of receiving a Porsche rental car from Kim, to appear soon.