Jongwook Lee Referred to Prosecution Over Alleged Illegal Political Funds

Jongwook Lee, a lawmaker from the People Power Party representing Jinhae in Changwon, who was suspected of receiving illegal campaign funds during the 22nd National Assembly election, has been referred to the prosecution.

The Gyeongnam Provincial Police Agency announced on January 14 that it has referred a total of three individuals-including Assemblyman Lee and two former members of his election campaign team-to the Changwon District Prosecutors' Office on charges of violating the Political Funds Act.

Assemblyman Lee, who was elected in the 22nd general election held on April 10, 2024, is accused of receiving 49.7 million won in illegal political funds from a member of his campaign team, identified as Mr. A, ahead of the election.

There are allegations that these funds, which were not reported to the National Election Commission, were used to cover the costs of opinion polls and wages for campaign staff.

People Power Party lawmaker Jongwook Lee leading a meeting on improving fishing regulations within the port area. Photo by Jongwook Lee's office

The police believe that although Mr. A asked Assemblyman Lee to repay the money he had lent him, Lee did not do so. When Mr. A filed for a payment order with the court, Lee reportedly asked another campaign team member, Mr. B, to repay the debt on his behalf, and Mr. B subsequently paid Mr. A.

The Gyeongnam Election Commission, which has been investigating these allegations, requested the police to investigate Assemblyman Lee and the other two individuals.

A police official stated, "As this is an ongoing investigation, we cannot disclose further details."