[2020 National Audit] Ambassador Jang Ha-sung's Research Fund Misuse Controversy "Used 2.79 Million KRW in 6 Instances, Sincerely Apologize"

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[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Ambassador Jang Ha-sung apologized for the controversy regarding the use of corporate cards during his tenure as a professor at Korea University.

On the 21st, Ambassador Jang appeared at the National Assembly Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee's audit and explained, "In 2016, when I was the head of the research institute, I used the card for gatherings with members at restaurants, including meals and wine," adding, "I used 2.79 million KRW over six occasions. Since multiple people had meals and side dishes, about 400,000 KRW was additionally spent, so the payments were split between the research institute operation card and the research fund support card."

He continued, "During the audit period by the school, I was pointed out that splitting payments like this was inappropriate, and I refunded the full amount," and added, "This happened when I was the head of the research institute, and I sincerely apologize to the Korea University members and the public for the inappropriate payments."

Earlier, according to the comprehensive audit of Korea University announced by the Ministry of Education last month, professors used corporate cards at entertainment establishments such as room salons. The audit revealed that 13 Korea University professors made 221 payments totaling 66.93 million KRW with research fund cards and administrative cards at a Gangnam entertainment venue disguised as a Western restaurant from March 2016 to December 2019.

Among the 12 professors who received severe disciplinary actions over this matter was Ambassador Jang. However, since Ambassador Jang had retired at the time of the disciplinary action, it is understood that he was processed as 'no action' according to standard procedures.

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