Kwon Seong-dong, a member of the People Power Party, appeared as a suspect before the special prosecutor Min Jung-gi’s team, facing charges of violating the Political Funds Act.
Kwon arrived at the special prosecutor’s office located at the KT Gwanghwamun Building West in Jongno-gu at approximately 9:47 a.m. on the 27th, where he stated, “I am innocent regarding the various allegations raised by the special prosecutor. Therefore, I stand confidently.”
He further claimed, “The special prosecutor is leaking confidential investigation details to certain media outlets, announcing the suspicions and damaging my reputation,” adding, “Even if the special prosecutor overreaches, they cannot fabricate a non-existent crime, nor can they uproot the foundation of democracy in South Korea and the opposition party People Power Party. I will go and testify just as it is and prove my confidence.”
When asked by reporters if he acknowledged receiving political funds worth 100 million won from the Unification Church, he replied, “I have never received any money or goods from any Unification Church officials.”
Kwon is under investigation by the special prosecutor for allegedly receiving illegal political funds amounting to 100 million won from 2021 to 2024, requested by Yoon Mo, the global headquarters director of the Unification Church (indicted after arrest).
Allegations of receiving a shopping bag filled with cash from Han Hak-ja, the president of the Unification Church, in February-March 2022 are also under investigation.
Additionally, the special prosecutor’s team is examining suspicions that Yoon and Jeon Seong-bae, referred to as “Geonjin monk,” mobilized Unification Church members to join the People Power Party to support Kwon in the party’s leadership election held in March 2023.
Last month on the 18th, the special prosecutor’s team conducted a search and seizure at Kwon’s residence, National Assembly office, and constituency office in Gangneung to secure evidence. However, an attempted search and seizure at the People Power Party headquarters for securing the party membership list was thwarted due to opposition from the party.
#KwonSeongdong #SpecialProsecutor #Appearance
For inquiries and reports to Yonhap News TV: KakaoTalk/Line jebo23