South Korea’s opposition leader, Lee Jae-myung, was indicted on bribery charges for allegedly using an underwear maker to transfer funds to North Korea and arrange a visit to Pyongyang during his time as a provincial governor. His deputy had already been found guilty of involvement in the scheme, which aimed to send $8 million to North Korea through Ssangbangwool Group, a business conglomerate with origins in the underwear industry.
Despite denying any knowledge or involvement in the plan, Lee faces scrutiny as he was the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate in 2022 and is a key contender for the 2027 elections. Additionally, he is facing a separate trial for corruption during his tenure as mayor near Seoul.
This incident echoes past controversies involving government officials transferring funds to North Korea, tarnishing efforts for engagement between the two Koreas. Lee’s case adds to the political drama in South Korea, as he contests the charges and criticizes the prosecutors’ actions.
As the legal battle unfolds, Lee’s political future hangs in the balance, with implications for upcoming elections and the relationship between North and South Korea.
© Thomson Reuters 2024.