South Korea’s Seoul Central District Court issued an arrest warrant for Rep. Kweon Seong-dong, formerly the conservative People Power Party whip. Authorities cited the risk that Kweon could destroy evidence. This marked the first arrest of a sitting lawmaker in the 22nd National Assembly.
Kweon, a five-term legislator, faces allegations of receiving illicit political funds from an official linked to the Unification Church. Prosecutors said the funds aimed to influence former President Yoon Suk Yeol’s actions regarding church interests.
The arrest warrant followed a four-and-a-half-hour review by the court. Kweon entered the hearing claiming innocence and accusing the special counsel of pursuing political power. After the review, authorities sent him to Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province.
The special counsel has been investigating corruption allegations tied to Kim Keon Hee, the wife of ex-President Yoon. Prosecutors claim that Kweon illegally received 100 million won during the campaign period ahead of the presidential election. They also allege that Unification Church members joined the People Power Party to strengthen Kweon’s influence.
Parliament approved lifting Kweon’s immunity from arrest in a 173-1 vote, allowing legal action to proceed. Despite the approval, Kweon continued to deny any wrongdoing. Investigators are reviewing his connections with church officials and other figures implicated in political fund transactions.
This arrest signals stricter scrutiny of lawmakers in South Korea. Since democratization in 1987, nine sitting legislators, including Kweon, have faced arrest. Authorities emphasized that the case reflects ongoing efforts to curb corruption and ensure accountability in public office.
Observers noted that the investigation could impact political dynamics in South Korea, especially within the conservative party. Analysts said that attention on church-linked funding and political influence may affect upcoming legislation and party cohesion.
The case also highlights the special counsel’s expanded role in overseeing political fund violations. Investigators are examining Kweon’s actions and the broader network of church officials and intermediaries who allegedly facilitated funds and influence within the party.
Overall, South Korea’s legal authorities acted decisively by issuing the arrest warrant, aiming to uphold accountability and deter corruption. The case continues to attract public attention and scrutiny as proceedings advance.
