Police deliberations on the sexual molestation allegations involving Democratic Party of Korea lawmaker Jang Kyung-tae ended after about four hours. The investigation review committee is expected to reach a conclusion as early as today on whether additional investigation is needed.
The investigation review committee held at the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency that day began at 3 p.m. and wrapped up around 7 p.m. The review was conducted by separating the investigation team, Jang, and the accuser to hear statements from each. After 30 minutes of statements each, additional questions and answers followed at the committee's request.
After the review ended, Jang met with reporters and said, "We discussed the course of the case, and I gave a faithful and thorough statement." Asked whether Jang was confident of being cleared, Jang said, "Of course," adding, "There is no charge, so there is nothing to acknowledge. There is no evidence." Jang added, "If we can do a face-to-face interrogation or a lie detector test, we will do everything," and said, "It is the accuser's duty to prove the evidence."
This review came together after Jang on the 9th requested an examination of the propriety of the investigation procedures and the decision on whether to refer the case. Jang's side is asking the committee to review the need for additional investigation, including lie detector tests for the accuser and those present, conducting a face-to-face interrogation, and seizing the accuser's and the former boyfriend's cellphones. On the other hand, the accuser's side was reported to have emphasized the need to punish Jang during the review process that day.
Jang is suspected of sexually molesting a female aide during a drinking session with staff at a restaurant in Yeouido in Oct. 2023. Allegations have also been raised that Jang committed secondary harm by exposing the victim's identity.