What’s the Latest on Seoul City Councilor Kang's Bribery Inquiry?
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Synopsis
In a high-stakes political drama, a Seoul city councilor and an ex-aide to Kang Sun-woo face serious bribery allegations related to the local elections of 2022. The unfolding investigation could have significant implications for the involved parties and the ruling Democratic Party. Stay tuned for the latest updates.
Key Takeaways
- Seoul city councilor Kim Kyoung and former aide Nam are under investigation for bribery.
- They are accused of a 100 million won cash transfer linked to election nominations.
- The case raises significant questions about political ethics in South Korea.
- The investigation is being handled by the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency.
- Kang Sun-woo has resigned from the Democratic Party amid the scandal.
Seoul, Jan 18 (NationPress) A city councilor in Seoul and a former aide to ex-ruling party legislator Kang Sun-woo faced police questioning for the third time on Sunday regarding bribery allegations related to the 2022 local elections.
Kim Kyoung, the Seoul city councilor, along with the former aide, known by the surname Nam, attended the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency for their interrogation, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
Nam, who was an aide to Representative Kang of the Democratic Party (DP), is accused of accepting 100 million won (approximately USD 68,170) from Kim before the local elections in 2022, allegedly in return for her nomination as a councilor.
During the initial police inquiry, Nam acknowledged meeting Kim alongside Kang but refuted the claims of receiving cash, asserting he was not present when the money was handed over. He later mentioned transferring what he described as an “item” to the trunk of Kang's vehicle, unaware that it contained cash.
Kim reportedly stated in her police testimony that she directly handed the cash to Kang at a café prior to the elections.
Furthermore, Kim claimed that Nam had specified the cash amount of 100 million won and was present when she delivered the money to Kang.
In contrast, Kang has maintained that she only learned of her aide's cash acceptance later and contended that she had instructed him to return it.
Kang recently departed from the DP following the emergence of these allegations.
Last December, police initiated an investigation against Kang Sun-woo of the ruling Democratic Party (DP) for allegedly receiving 100 million won (around USD 69,400) from a Seoul city councilor, officials reported.
The case has been assigned to the public crime investigation team of the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency after opposition legislators lodged a complaint against Kang and the councilor regarding bribery charges.
Point of View
It’s crucial to approach this developing situation with a commitment to impartiality. The allegations against prominent political figures like Kang Sun-woo must be examined thoroughly to uphold democratic values and accountability within South Korea’s political framework. Our priority remains to deliver factual and unbiased reporting to our audience.
NationPress
18/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the bribery allegations involving Kang Sun-woo?
Kang Sun-woo is accused of receiving 100 million won from a city councilor in exchange for a nomination ahead of the 2022 local elections.
Who is involved in the investigation?
The investigation involves Seoul city councilor Kim Kyoung and former aide Nam, as well as Representative Kang Sun-woo.
What has been the response from Kang Sun-woo?
Kang has stated she was unaware of her aide's actions and instructed him to return the cash.
Is there ongoing police investigation?
Yes, the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency is conducting an ongoing investigation into the bribery allegations.
How has this affected the Democratic Party?
Kang has resigned from the Democratic Party amid the rising allegations, affecting the party's image and integrity.
