"Regret over 'Incident Broker' Controversy... Not Yet at the Inspection Stage"
G-Dragon (35, real name Kwon Ji-yong), a singer under investigation for drug use, tested negative in a detailed forensic examination, but the police plan to continue their additional investigation.
A senior official from the National Police Agency responded to a question about the possibility of not prosecuting G-Dragon at a regular press briefing on the 27th, saying, "It is correct to say that all possibilities remain open until a conclusion is reached."
The official explained, "It is true that a negative result has been reported so far, but there are some additional investigations that need to be conducted," adding, "If it is clear from various circumstances that drug use occurred, it is not appropriate to send the case for non-prosecution just because the forensic result is completely negative. The conclusion is pending." He further added, "There are precedents where a guilty verdict was given regardless of the detailed forensic results when the circumstances of drug use were certain."
The official also commented on the drug use investigation involving actor Lee Sun-kyun (48), saying, "Although some admissions of drug use were reported in the media, they were not court testimonies, so they hold no significant meaning," and added, "We are conducting an investigation to confirm the extent of drug use."
According to the police on the same day, the Incheon Police Agency is investigating or conducting preliminary inquiries into a total of 10 individuals, including Kwon and Lee, on drug use charges, with the number of those formally booked increasing from 5 to 7.
Additionally, the police announced that all seven active-duty police officers booked on suspicion of being 'case brokers' have been suspended from their positions. A police official stated, "There are ongoing investigations into various corrupt practices related to internal personnel issues within the police, and the command is deeply regretful about this," adding, "We plan to explore ways to ensure fair personnel management through institutional improvements, and if there are problems with the overall personnel system, we are prepared to undertake comprehensive reforms."
However, regarding the internal inspection related to this case, the official added, "At this stage, it is difficult to determine the timing to start an internal inspection," and explained, "Since the investigation is ongoing, conducting an internal inspection could adversely affect the investigation."
Meanwhile, the police also revealed that they have seized four mobile phones and one laptop from soccer national team player Hwang Ui-jo (31, Norwich City) in connection with allegations of illegal filming and are currently conducting forensic analysis. So far, the police have identified two victims.
When asked whether there is concern that Hwang might have tried to destroy evidence by resetting the laptop, the police said, "It is difficult to comment. We can only be certain after the forensic results come out." Regarding securing his custody, they explained, "It will be decided based on the progress of the investigation," and added, "Hwang is currently staying overseas, but if necessary, we can request his appearance."
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