The controversy over the relocation of the presidential office has finally come to an end as the Audit Office is set to release its findings this week after a two-year investigation. Amid allegations of abuse of power and favoritism in the process of moving the presidential office, civic groups had demanded a national audit in October 2022. The investigation was extended multiple times before the audit results were scheduled to be released just before the Chuseok holiday.
Critics have raised concerns that the Audit Office, once considered a “regime protection agency,” took too long to complete the investigation. The presidential office has defended its actions, stating that most of the construction work related to the move had been contracted by the previous administration.
The move of the presidential office, initially met with resistance from the incumbent administration, proceeded as planned under the newly elected President Yoon Suk-yeol. Despite facing challenges and delays, President Yoon officially relocated to the new office in May 2022. The relocation process has been marred by allegations of irregularities and illegal practices, leading to further scrutiny and criticism.
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