Independent lawmaker Kim Byung-kee (former floor leader of the Democratic Party of Korea), who faces 13 allegations of misconduct, appeared before police on the morning of the 8th. It is the sixth summons for questioning.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency's Public Crime Investigation Unit summoned Kim as a suspect for questioning starting at 9 a.m. that day. Kim arrived at the Mapo office of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency at about 8:57 a.m. He said, "It seems they are calling me in too often, but in any case I will diligently explain myself."
When asked by reporters, "If an arrest warrant is sought, will you give up your privilege against arrest?", Kim said, "Would there be any reason for an arrest warrant to be sought?" before heading to the interrogation room.
As police have decided to refer the case to prosecutors by separating the charges, they are expected to press first on the charges that can be substantiated. At a regular press briefing on the 6th, Park Jeong-bo, head of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency, said, "We will reach a conclusion soon on matters that can be assessed."
Kim is accused of receiving illegal funds from former Dongjak District Council members ahead of the general election and of quashing a police investigation into allegations that his spouse misused a corporate card. There are also allegations of favoritism involving his second son's transfer to Soongsil University and employment at the virtual asset exchange Bithumb.