[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] The prosecution investigating the Daejang-dong development lobbying and preferential treatment allegations conducted a search and seizure at the residence of Gwak Sang-do's son, who received 5 billion KRW as severance pay from Hwacheon Daeyu.
According to the legal community on the 2nd, the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office's dedicated investigation team reportedly searched the home of Gwak's son, Byeong-chae, the previous day.
The prosecution is said to have taken Byeong-chae's mobile phone and other items.
It was revealed that Gwak's son, who joined Hwacheon Daeyu, the Daejang-dong development contractor, in June 2015 and worked there until March of this year, received 5 billion KRW as severance pay, sparking controversy.
Gwak explained that his son's monthly salary was "only 2.5 million KRW," but as the fact that he received 5 billion KRW in severance pay came to light and the controversy grew, he left the People Power Party and resigned from his parliamentary seat on the same day.
In a press conference, Gwak stated, "Regarding this matter, any statement I make would only cause greater misunderstandings and distrust will not be alleviated, making it difficult for me to continue my activities as a member of the National Assembly."
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