'Yeo-yu Manman' Nam Wook Offers to Buy Coffee for Reporters... Is There a Reason?

Namwook, a lawyer under prosecution investigation related to the Seongnam Daejang-dong development preferential treatment suspicion case, is being re-summoned to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office in Seocho-gu, Seoul on the morning of the 22nd and is heading to the interrogation room.
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Hwang Sumi] Nam Wook, a lawyer who is a key figure in the Seongnam Daejang-dong development preferential treatment allegations and is under investigation by the prosecution, is attracting attention by showing a relaxed attitude, not avoiding contact with reporters and even making jokes.

Nam, the owner of Cheonhwa-dongin No. 4, was arrested by the prosecution immediately upon returning from the United States on the 18th. When arrested at Incheon Airport upon arrival, he showed a clearly tense expression while being transferred to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office. He also did not respond to any questions from the press.

However, the situation was different when he finished the summons investigation and returned home on the night of the 21st. Nam showed a much lighter expression and did not avoid contact with reporters.

Nam said, "I got scolded by the prosecution for saying one word yesterday. Just kidding," and "I will buy each of you a cup of coffee later." When reporters continued to ask questions, he laughed and said, "Let's go together until I get home. I'm going to Gangnam Station."

After finishing the investigation that morning and stepping outside the Central District Prosecutors' Office building to have a meal, he said, "You know I can't say anything."

On the other hand, Kim Man-bae, the major shareholder of Hwacheon Daeyu, who had been boldly denying the allegations, is refraining from public comments. He did not hide his stern face throughout the prosecution investigation.

Regarding this, some speculate that among the so-called 'Daejang-dong Four,' lawyer Nam Wook and accountant Jeong Young-hak might be giving statements unfavorable to former Seongnam Urban Development Corporation Planning Director Yoo Dong-gyu and Kim Man-bae.