Former South Korean President Moon Jae-in indicted for alleged bribery in connection with his son-in-law’s employment at a Thai budget airline.
The indictment of former South Korean president Moon Jae-in marks a significant development in the country’s ongoing political turmoil. The allegations, which date back to his term from 2017 to 2022, revolve around his ex-son-in-law’s employment at a Thai budget airline.
In 2018, South Korean President Moon Jae-in faced an impeachment vote due to allegations of abuse of power.
The controversy surrounded his handling of a 2014 ferry sinking disaster that resulted in the deaths of 304 people.
Critics accused him of mishandling the crisis and delaying investigations.
Although he was impeached by the National Assembly, the Constitutional Court later overturned the decision, allowing Moon Jae-in to remain in office.
This incident highlighted the complexities of South Korea's parliamentary system and the president's role within it.
Prosecutors have indicted Moon Jae-in on charges of corruption for allegedly receiving 217 million won (approximately €134,000 or $152,000) in connection with facilitating the employment of his son-in-law at Thai Eastar Jet. The indictment also involves former lawmaker Lee Sang-jik, who was accused of bribery and breach of trust.
In 2020, Moon Jae-in's administration was embroiled in a corruption scandal involving the president's friend and confidant, Choi Jong-koo.
The allegations centered around Choi Jong-koo's involvement in several high-profile construction projects, including the Gwanggaeto the Great statue project.
Critics accused Moon Jae-in of favoritism and cronyism, with some even calling for his impeachment.
However, an investigation by the Seoul Central District Prosecutors' Office found no evidence of wrongdoing on the part of Moon Jae-in or Choi Jong-koo.
The scandal highlighted concerns about corruption in South Korea's government and the need for greater transparency.
According to investigators, Lee’s appointment to lead the non-profit Korea SMEs & Startups Agency (KOSME) was allegedly made in exchange for getting Moon’s former son-in-law a job at the airline. Lee had been in charge of Thai Eastar Jet from 2018 to 2020.
The indictment has also implicated Moon’s daughter, Da-hye, who was reported by South Korean news agency Yonhap as being part of the alleged scheme. Furthermore, investigators believe that Moon’s son-in-law’s salary at Thai Eastar Jet may have been a bribe to the then-president.
The indictment comes just six weeks before a general election in South Korea, which has been marked by bitter political divisions and controversies. The election was brought forward to June 3 after the impeachment of Yoon Suk Yeol, who succeeded Moon as president in 2022. If convicted, Yoon could face life in prison or even the death penalty.
The indictment of Moon Jae-in and his associates has significant implications for South Korea’s ongoing political crisis. The arrest raises questions about the country’s ability to maintain stability and trust in its institutions during a time of great uncertainty.
South Korea has been facing a severe political crisis since the 2016-2017 impeachment of President Park Geun-hye.
The scandal led to widespread 'protests' and calls for reform.
In 2020, President Moon Jae-in was criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and economic decline.
The country's opposition parties have also been plagued by infighting and corruption allegations.
According to a survey, over 70% of South Koreans believe their democracy is in crisis.
The situation remains volatile, with ongoing 'protests' and demands for President Moon Jae-in's resignation.
