[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 won in 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 residence of Gwak's son, Byeong-chae, the day before.
The prosecution is said to have taken 2 to 3 of Byeong-chae's mobile phones and a vehicle black box. However, Gwak's residence and the National Assembly office were not included in the search targets.
The prosecution plans to summon Byeong-chae for questioning once the analysis of the seized items is complete.
It was revealed that Gwak's son, who joined Hwacheon Daeyu, the Daejang-dong development contractor, in June 2015 and worked there until March this year, received 5 billion won in severance pay, sparking controversy.
Gwak explained that his son's monthly salary was "barely 2.5 million won," but as it was revealed that he received 5 billion won in severance pay, the controversy escalated, leading him to leave the People Power Party and resign from his parliamentary position on the same day.
In a press conference, Gwak stated, "Regarding this matter, any statement I make would only cause greater misunderstanding and distrust, making it difficult for me to continue my activities as a member of the National Assembly."
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