No Further Comments Yet on Jeon Jae-soo Investigation
Kim Byungki's Son Allegation "Under Investigation"
The police announced on December 22 that they have questioned a total of eight individuals so far, including suspects, in connection with the allegations of political figures receiving money and valuables from the Unification Church.
Sungjoo Park, Director of the National Police Agency's Investigation Bureau, stated at a regular press briefing that "starting today, five additional investigators will be added to the team, bringing the total to 30 members."
Director Park responded to questions about the investigation into former Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Jeon Jae-soo by saying, "At this stage, I have nothing specific to share."
Regarding the summons schedule for former Democratic Party lawmaker Lim Jongseong and former United Future Party lawmaker Kim Gyuhwan, Director Park said, "The dates for questioning have not yet been determined."
The police are currently investigating allegations that, between 2018 and 2020, the Unification Church provided tens of millions of won in cash and luxury watches to three individuals: former Minister Jeon, former lawmaker Lim, and former lawmaker Kim.
Director Park also commented on the suspicion that Kim Byungki, the Democratic Party floor leader, used his status as a lawmaker to facilitate his son's university transfer, stating that "the matter is under investigation." Regarding the allegation that Lee Junseok, leader of the Reform New Party, had polling expenses paid on his behalf, he said, "I cannot comment on the specifics."
The National Police Agency's Special Investigation Headquarters for the 'Three Major Special Prosecutor Transfer Cases' announced, "Taking into account overlapping cases among suspects, 33 cases have been classified," and added, "Twenty cases involving military personnel are under review for transfer, and the Special Investigation Headquarters' Investigation Team 2 plans to investigate the remaining 13 cases."
The Special Investigation Headquarters will continue investigations into allegations such as the leak of investigative information at the North Gyeongsang Provincial Police Agency, neglect of duty and abuse of authority by Kim Yongwon, Standing Commissioner of the National Human Rights Commission, and violation of the Attorney-at-Law Act by Lee Jongho, former CEO of Black Pearl Investment.
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