"Bribery Fabrication Video Allegation"... Yeonggwang Governor's Side Announces Strong Legal Action

Bribery Allegations Spread Ahead of Local Elections
Suspicion Raised Over Edited Video Showing Only Money Exchange
Governor's Side Files Defamation Complaint With Police

Front view of Yeonggwang Police Station. Photo by Jinseok Sim

As the June 3 local elections approach, controversy is spreading in the region over a so-called "bribery fabrication video" involving the family of Yeonggwang County Governor Jang Seil. Governor Jang's side has characterized the incident as a serious political scheme and has announced plans for a strong legal response.

According to Yeonggwang County and Yeonggwang Police Station on March 21, Governor Jang Seil's second daughter, identified as A, filed a police complaint on March 13 against two individuals, including B, on charges of defamation related to the production of false and fabricated videos.

A's side claims that the individuals intentionally manipulated and distributed a video showing them attempting to hand over an envelope of cash and a box of fruit, asking that it be delivered to "the father (Governor Jang Seil)."

The official complaint reportedly states that, in September 2024, B met A at a cafe in Yeonggwang-eup and attempted to deliver money and valuables. During the meeting, A clearly expressed her refusal by saying, "I cannot accept this." However, the video was secretly recorded, and the footage was edited to leave only the scene where the envelope was handed over, omitting the refusal, thus making it appear as if A received a bribe.

Furthermore, the complaint alleges that "B and the other accused conspired to show the video to local figures while spreading the false claim that 'the governor accepted 30 million won through his daughter.' It is also stated that some individuals referred to the video and demanded meetings with the governor's side, making remarks that amounted to pressure."

A's representative commented, "The video is spreading again ahead of the party's primary," and added, "There is suspicion that a particular group has orchestrated this to influence the election."

A's legal counsel stated, "There is a high possibility that the original video includes the scene of refusing the money," and emphasized, "It is necessary to clarify whether the footage was edited through forensic analysis and seizure of evidence."

Meanwhile, Yeonggwang Police reportedly plan to investigate whether the video was manipulated and whether there was any collusion based on the contents of the complaint.

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