Independent lawmaker Kim Byung-kee (former floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea), who is facing various corruption allegations, appeared before police on the 2nd. It is the fifth summons for questioning.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Public Crime Investigation Unit is under investigation Kim from 3:30 p.m. on the 2nd as a suspect on charges including bribery. It comes two days after questioning on the 31st.
Kim arrived at the Mapo office of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency at about 3:29 p.m. Reporters asked, "There is criticism that you are delaying the investigation; what do you think?" and "If a request for an arrest warrant is filed, will you maintain parliamentary immunity from arrest?" but Kim did not answer and headed to the interrogation room.
Citing a herniated disc and other health issues, Kim has repeatedly undergone about 4 to 5 hours of police questioning before returning home. If the questioning falls short, there is also a possibility of an additional summons.
Ahead of the general election, Kim is accused of receiving illegal funds from former Dongjak District council members and of attempting to quash a police investigation into allegations that his spouse misused a corporate card.
There are also allegations of preferential treatment involving his second son's transfer to Soongsil University and employment at the virtual asset exchange Bithumb. Kim's second son also appeared before police as a suspect on the morning of the same day and was questioned.