An allegation of "overseas sex-for-entertainment" has been raised against candidate Park Gee-won of the Democratic Party of Korea, who is running in the by-election for National Assembly member in Gunsan, Gimje and Buan, North Jeolla. Park said the allegation is groundless and noted plans for a tough response.

Park Gee-won, Democratic Party of Korea candidate for National Assembly representing Gunsan, Gimje, and Buan./Courtesy of Yonhap News

A person surnamed Yoo, who said they served together with Park as a Commissioner on the Jeonju Youth Subcommittee of the Law-Love group under the Ministry of Justice, held a press conference at the North Jeolla Provincial Council on the 26th and said, "In June 2018, during a workshop in Cebu, the Philippines, candidate Park and another member headed to an entertainment establishment after the official schedule."

Yoo said, "Park not only enjoyed entertainment but also received sex-for-entertainment and paid the expense."

Yoo said, "How can someone who went abroad under the name of a group that claims to guide youths and uphold the law, frequented entertainment establishments, and received sex-for-entertainment step forward to become a public official representing the people?"

Immediately after the disclosure, Park issued a statement and refuted the "overseas sex-for-entertainment" allegation. Park said, "It is true that I visited the Philippines with members related to the Law-Love group," but added, "The other claims are groundless."

Park said, "We will take firm action against the spread of false information and malicious negativity that muddies the election."

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