Kim Byung-gi Summoned Again After Two Days, Questioned for Seventh Time While Wearing Back Brace

Kim Byung-gi, an independent lawmaker, appeared before police again on the 10th, Financial News reported. This is his seventh appearance since his first summons on February 26, and the investigation has turned into a prolonged series of repeated questioning sessions.
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Public Crime Investigation Unit began its seventh round of questioning of Kim at 2 p.m. that day, treating him as a suspect on charges including bribery and violations of the Political Funds Act. It comes just two days after the sixth session, which was held on the 8th.
Kim arrived at the Seoul Mapo Government Complex at around 1:55 p.m. and, as he stepped out of his vehicle, remarked, "What are you even trying to cover from here?" before heading to the interrogation room. He did not respond to questions such as whether he believes an arrest warrant will not be sought, his view on criticism over delays in the investigation, whether he is suffering back pain, or whether he thinks this will be the final round of questioning. His demeanor contrasted with his previous appearance, when he had projected confidence by saying, "There is no way an arrest warrant will be requested" and "I am confident I can prove my innocence."
Starting from the fourth round of questioning, Kim has been appearing while wearing a back brace, and he wore one again on this day. In earlier sessions, he was questioned for about five to six hours before being sent home, and the sixth session also ended after roughly five and a half hours.
Kim is under investigation over a total of 13 allegations, including turning a blind eye to fellow lawmaker Kang Sun-woo’s alleged receipt of nomination bribes, intervening in his second son’s transfer to Soongsil University, seeking employment favors at the cryptocurrency exchange Bithumb, misusing his spouse’s corporate credit card and trying to quash the probe, and requesting personnel disadvantages for a former aide. Whether there were special favors or quid pro quo involved in his son’s transfer and hiring process is also a key focus of the investigation.
Police have recently expanded the scope of the probe, conducting a search and seizure at SMG-SNU Boramae Medical Center in Dongjak District, Seoul, over allegations that Kim’s family received preferential treatment in medical services, and securing medical records and other materials.
The allegations surrounding Kim were first raised in September last year, but about six months on, no clear prosecutorial or disciplinary decision has been made. As the pattern of repeated summonses and short questioning sessions continues, controversy over delays in the investigation is also growing.
Based on the statements and materials secured so far, police plan to consider whether to summon Kim again. Once all questioning is complete, they intend to decide, for each charge, whether to refer the case to prosecutors and how to handle his custody status.
425_sama@fnnews.com Choi Seung-han Reporter