Police Impose Travel Ban on Kang Sunwoo over Alleged 100 Million Won Nomination Fund Scandal

The police have imposed a travel ban on independent lawmaker Kang Sunwoo, who is suspected of receiving 100 million won in nomination funds.

Yonhap News Agency

On January 12, Park Jeongbo, Commissioner of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, announced at a regular briefing that travel bans had been imposed on Assemblywoman Kang, former chief secretary Nam, and Seoul Metropolitan Council member Kim Kyung.

Kang is suspected of accepting a 100 million won bribe through former chief secretary Nam from council member Kim, who allegedly provided the money in exchange for a party nomination ahead of the 2022 local elections.

Regarding criticism that the initial questioning of council member Kim was brief, Commissioner Park explained, "Due to time differences and health conditions, we determined that further questioning at that time would not be productive," adding, "Based on the voluntary statement submitted by Kim, we plan to summon him again soon for a supplementary investigation."

Council member Kim was questioned for approximately three hours and thirty minutes immediately after returning to Korea the previous day and was released early in the morning. Kim is accused of handing over 100 million won to Kang's office through then-chief secretary Nam ahead of the 2022 local elections.

The police are currently investigating 23 cases related to various allegations of misconduct involving Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Byungki. Commissioner Park stated, "If we categorize the complaints by specific allegations, there are 12 cases," and added, "We will thoroughly investigate the allegations to ensure that no suspicions remain."

Commissioner Park also said, "We are aware of concerns regarding delayed or lenient investigations and doubts about the police's determination or capability," adding, "We understand these as calls to thoroughly investigate and uncover the substantive truth."