Prosecutors Conduct Search of Businessman and Lawyer Who Reported Allegations of 'Judge Lee Young-jin Entertainment'

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Daehyun] The High-ranking Officials' Crime Investigation Unit (PCC) conducted a search and seizure at the offices of a businessman and others who reported allegations of golf entertainment involving Constitutional Court Justice Lee Young-jin. This marks the first time the PCC has initiated a compulsory investigation related to Justice Lee's case.

According to the legal community on the 8th, the PCC's Investigation Division 3 (Deputy Chief Prosecutor Cha Jeong-hyun acting as head) sent investigators to the office of businessman A, who claimed to have provided golf entertainment to Justice Lee, and to the office of lawyer B, who was handling A's case, securing evidence materials.

Previously, Mr. A stated that he first met Justice Lee at a golf gathering in October last year and claimed to have discussed his concerns regarding his divorce lawsuit over a meal. At that time, Justice Lee reportedly mentioned that he knew the chief judge of the family court and would help with the lawsuit. Additionally, it was said that through lawyer B, who was present at the golf and meal gathering, 5 million won in cash and golf apparel were delivered to Justice Lee.

On the other hand, Justice Lee has fully denied the allegations, stating, "I was not in a position to comment on ongoing trials, have not met since that day, and do not know the details." He also refuted the claim regarding money delivered to lawyer B, saying, "I do not know about the existence of the money and apparel and have never heard of it in the first place."

Following the report of the related allegations, the civic group Judicial Justice Citizens' Action filed a complaint with the PCC on the 10th of last month against Justice Lee for violations of the Specific Crimes Act on Mediation and the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act.

Last month, the PCC summoned Mr. A as a witness to inquire about the circumstances of the entertainment and the process of delivering money to lawyer B. The investigation team is also reportedly reviewing the legal grounds for establishing the charges.

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