Chae Sangbyeong Special Prosecutor: "Investigation 80-90% Complete... Over 200 Questioned Since Launch"

Investigation Nears Completion... Reviewing Detention and Prosecution of Suspects
Considering Second Extension of Investigation Period

The special prosecutor team led by Lee Myunghyun has completed a significant portion of the investigation into allegations of external pressure and cover-up in the Chae Sangbyeong case and is now at the stage of reviewing actions against key suspects. The special prosecutor team is expected to soon request a second extension of the investigation period and decide on the handling of the main suspects.

Special Prosecutor Jung Minyoung giving a briefing. Photo by Yonhap News

At a regular briefing on the 14th, Special Prosecutor Jung Minyoung responded to a reporter's question about the progress of the investigation into allegations of external pressure by saying, "We are about 80 to 90 percent finished." He added, "Since the launch of the special prosecutor's office, we have questioned a total of about 200 witnesses and suspects," and explained, "We are currently reviewing the overall content and conducting a selection process."

To complete the remaining investigation, the special prosecutor team plans to extend the investigation period for a second time. Special Prosecutor Jung stated, "An extension of the period is necessary," and added, "This extension requires presidential approval, so we plan to send a request for approval next week." According to the special prosecutor law, the team can extend the investigation period twice; they have already extended it once. If the extension is granted this time, the investigation will be possible until November 28.

As the investigation enters its final stage, the special prosecutor team is reviewing actions against key suspects. In the case of Lee Jongseop, former Minister of National Defense and a central figure in the allegations, the team is considering applying additional charges beyond abuse of authority, obstruction of the exercise of rights, and fabrication and use of false official documents, and is reviewing the possibility of requesting an arrest warrant.

It is also reported that the team is considering whether to request arrest warrants for Park Jinhee, military aide (Army Major General), and Kim Gyehwan, former Marine Corps Commander.

Meanwhile, the special prosecutor team sent a summons on the previous day to the side of former President Yoon Sukyeol, who is at the center of the allegations, requesting his appearance for questioning on the morning of the 23rd. However, it is reported that they have not yet received any response from his legal representatives.

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