Police: Search of Moon Dahye Taxi Driver's Oriental Clinic Was Routine Investigation

Investigation Launched Before Formal Charges for 'Illegal Lodging Business' Allegations

The police stated on the 28th that the investigation into Moon Da-hye, daughter of former President Moon Jae-in, for drunk driving was conducted at a routine level, and that a pre-indictment investigation (internal inquiry) has been initiated regarding allegations of illegal lodging business.

Moon Da-hye, daughter of former President Moon Jae-in. [Image source=Yonhap News]

At a regular press briefing that day, Woo Jong-su, head of the National Investigation Headquarters of the National Police Agency, said, "Compared to other traffic accidents, it was not excessive and was conducted according to standard investigation procedures," and added, "The timing of the transfer to prosecution has not been decided."

Regarding criticism that the raid on the oriental medicine clinic was unusual, Director Woo explained, "Since voluntary submission was not possible, we conducted the search," and stated, "I do not agree with the criticism."

On the morning of the 5th, Moon drove in front of the Hamilton Hotel in Itaewon, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.149%, which is above the license cancellation level (0.08% or higher), and collided with a taxi following behind. Moon appeared at the police station for questioning on the 18th and currently there are no plans for additional summons.

Regarding allegations of illegal lodging business operations by Moon, Director Woo said, "The case was received last week and is still in the early stages. We plan to proceed with the investigation according to legal procedures," and added, "It is still under pre-indictment investigation (internal inquiry)."

The Yeongdeungpo Police Station in Seoul is investigating Moon on suspicion of violating the Public Health Act following a request from Yeongdeungpo District on the 24th. A complaint was filed with the district office asking to verify whether Moon is operating a lodging business using a shared lodging platform without residing in the officetel she owns near Yeongdeungpo Station. There are also allegations that Moon operated lodging without registration at a house in Hallim-eup, Jeju City. To operate an officetel as a shared lodging business, facilities and equipment must be equipped in accordance with the Public Health Act, and a public health business report must be submitted to the competent district office.