Gidongmin: "I Have Not Contacted Kim Bonghyun for 4 Years... No Relation to the Lime Incident"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Wondara] Ki Dong-min, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, denied the allegations of involvement in the 'Lime scandal,' stating, "I have never received political funds." This is the first official statement from Representative Ki since the allegations were raised.

On the 21st, Representative Ki released a 'Statement Regarding Allegations of Receiving Political Funds,' saying, "I have never received political funds, and during my four-year term in the National Assembly, I have never had any contact or meetings with Kim Bong-hyun."

Representative Ki added, "Although there was a recent request from the prosecution to appear, I requested a schedule adjustment through my lawyer due to pre-scheduled official duties," and said, "If there was any dissemination of facts by the prosecution that differ from reality, I believe there was malicious intent."

He also stated, "I naturally have a strong desire to cooperate with the investigation, provide explanations, and resolve the matter," and emphasized, "The clear fact is that I have no connection whatsoever with the Lime case. I will sincerely and accurately participate in the investigation and clear up the suspicions as soon as the (prosecution's investigation schedule) is coordinated."

Representative Ki is suspected of receiving money from Kim Bong-hyun, the former chairman of Star Mobility and the de facto owner of Lime Asset Management. Lime Asset Management caused damages amounting to 1.6 trillion KRW to general investors last year due to the suspension of fund redemptions. The Criminal Division 6 of the Seoul Southern District Prosecutors' Office (Chief Prosecutor Jo Sang-won), which is investigating this case, recently notified Representative Ki of a summons as a suspect, but it is known that he has not complied with this.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.