PM says gov't to look into lawmaker's release of alleged investigation records on lobbying scandal

Prime Minister Han Seong-sook announced on Wednesday that her government will investigate potential illegality surrounding the release of what appeared to be investigative records by a prosecutor-turned lawmaker. The controversy stems from allegations of lobbying misconduct involving the justice minister nominee. During a parliamentary session, Han expressed her intention to have an appropriate agency examine the circumstances of the alleged leak and whether it violated regulations.

She emphasized that if classified investigation records were leaked without proper procedures, it would be considered a very serious case. Rep. Han Dong-hoon, the individual responsible for releasing a series of phone conversation transcripts and other documents, has accused former ruling party nominee for the justice minister position, Kim Seung-won, of exerting undue influence on the food and drug safety ministry to approve a COVID-19 treatment in 2021.

Prior to his current role, Han Dong-hoon served as justice minister under the previous administration and led the main opposition party, but was expelled from the party due to internal conflicts.