**[Anchor’s Commentary]**
Former Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Jeon Jae-soo, who is suspected of accepting bribes from the Unification Church, appeared at the police station just a short while ago. Former Minister Jeon strongly denied the allegations, sarcastically suggesting, “You might as well say I received 20 billion won in cash and 100 watches.” Let’s connect with the field reporter on site for more details. Reporter Hwang Ji-won, please provide the details.
**[Reporter]**
Yes, former Minister of Oceans and Fisheries Jeon Jae-soo was summoned to the police headquarters as a suspect at around 9:55 this morning (the 19th).
With a firm expression, former Minister Jeon stated in front of the press that he had never received any requests from the Unification Church concerning the Korea-Japan undersea tunnel. He strongly claimed it contradicted his political beliefs and denied the allegations. Let’s listen to his related statements.
▶ Interview: Jeon Jae-soo / Former Minister of Oceans and Fisheries
– “The Korea-Japan undersea tunnel is something that would undermine the future of Busan. That’s why I have opposed it, and it is my political conviction. How could someone like me have traded this conviction for 20 million won in cash and a single watch? How does that make sense?”
Former Minister Jeon is accused of receiving 20 million won in cash and a Bulgari watch worth approximately 10 million won from the Unification Church around 2018.
The police are investigating whether these items were bribes related to the Unification Church’s long-standing goal of constructing the Korea-Japan undersea tunnel.
In addition, suspicions have arisen that a foundation under the Unification Church purchased 500 copies of former Minister Jeon’s book, worth 10 million won, in bulk in 2019.
The police are reportedly looking into whether this book purchase was a roundabout way for the Unification Church to provide support.
▶ Interview: Jeon Jae-soo / Former Minister of Oceans and Fisheries
– “I again clearly and forcefully state that I have never illegally accepted any kind of bribes from the Unification Church.”
The police intend to focus on proving the allegations against the former minister using materials obtained through comprehensive searches, including at the Unification Church’s Seoul headquarters.
This has been Hwang Ji-won reporting from the police headquarters for MBN News.
Video coverage: Kim Tae-hyung
Video editing: Han Nam-seon