Investigation into Favoritism Allegations in Hiring of Former Son-in-Law Seo Mo
Executive Hired Without Practical Experience in Aviation Industry
The prosecution investigating the suspicion of 'preferential hiring by an airline' involving Seo, the son-in-law of former President Moon Jae-in, has launched a forced investigation into Moon's daughter, Dahye.
The Criminal Division 3 of Jeonju District Prosecutors' Office (Chief Prosecutor Han Yeon-gyu) announced on the 30th that they are conducting a search and seizure at Dahye's residence in Seoul and other locations. It is known that through this search and seizure, the prosecution is identifying the amount of financial support that former President Moon and his wife allegedly provided improperly to Dahye's family.
Seo, who was Dahye's husband, became embroiled in controversy after former National Assembly member Lee Sang-jik was appointed as the chairman of the Small and Medium Business Corporation in 2018. Following this, Seo was employed as an executive director at Thai Vietjet, a Thai low-cost airline established by Lee, sparking debate. Although Seo had previously worked at a gaming company, he had no practical experience in the airline industry, leading to criticism both inside and outside regarding the hiring of an executive at an airline with poor initial performance.
The People Power Party and civic groups filed complaints with the prosecution four times between September 2020 and April 2021, requesting an investigation into the quid pro quo related to Seo's employment and Lee's appointment as chairman of the Small and Medium Business Corporation.
A prosecution official stated, "During the execution of the search warrant, the rights of the involved parties are being thoroughly guaranteed," adding, "Female prosecutors and investigators are conducting interviews and taking necessary measures to protect human rights."
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