On the 12th, police said that the records of the secret phone server within the Presidential Security Service that could clarify the 'obstruction of the execution of an arrest warrant' against former President Yoon Suk-yeol are being partially restored through forensic work.
A police official noted at a regular press briefing that they are "continuing discussions regarding the voluntary submission of materials (with the Security Service)." Regarding the progress of the forensic work, they stated, "It is difficult to say how much has been completed as it is not finished yet."
The materials that police can secure from the secret phone server are limited to those related to the suspicion that former President Yoon instructed the Security Service to obstruct an arrest (obstruction of special official duties). Materials related to the state of emergency are not included.
Police also reviewed closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from former President Yoon's office. They are in discussions with the Security Service to determine the final scope of materials to be submitted. The forensic work is being conducted jointly by the police and the Security Service.
Police plan to discuss with the lawyers whether it is necessary for the accused, former President Yoon, or Vice Administrator Kim Seong-hoon, to directly observe the forensic process. This is aimed at eliminating potential disputes. A police official said, "The lawyer attended the initial material selection as well."
The police official noted, "As soon as the analysis of the materials is complete, we can summon former Vice Administrator Kim Seong-hoon and former Security Service Chief Lee Kwang-woo for additional questioning."
The police are also investigating the suspicion that former President Yoon operated a 'secret camp' in an art gallery in Gangnam, Seoul, during his presidential campaign. On March 20th, they summoned two owners of the gallery and are currently conducting witness interviews.
The Northern Gyeonggi Police Agency is investigating allegations that Mr. Yoon, a former chairman of a foundation under the Unification Church, improperly managed donations from the foundation in the past. Mr. Yoon is under investigation by prosecutors for allegedly giving gifts, including a necklace for Kim Keon-hee, to Jeon, the fortune teller.