South Korea’s special counsel requested an arrest warrant over Sambu stock manipulation, targeting a top executive at the construction company. Lee Ki-hoon, vice chairman of Sambu Construction, allegedly orchestrated a scheme to inflate the company’s shares. Investigators are also examining whether former first lady Kim Keon Hee had any involvement in the Sambu stock manipulation, raising political stakes.
The warrant request followed questioning of Lee about his role in the alleged scheme. Sambu shares reportedly climbed from around 1,000 won to 5,500 won in just two months after misleading claims about reconstruction projects in Ukraine. Lee allegedly earned tens of billions of won from manipulating the stock, prompting further investigation by Min Joong-ki’s special counsel team. Analysts say this case demonstrates how corporate misconduct can intersect with political influence.
Authorities are focusing on potential political links in the Sambu stock manipulation case. Former President Yoon Suk Yeol and Kim visited Ukraine despite a travel ban, discussing reconstruction plans with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Investigators are exploring whether this high-profile trip coincided with or influenced Sambu shares. If proven, the case could show how political actions might affect corporate markets and investor behavior.
The Seoul Central District Court is scheduled to review the arrest warrant. Experts say the hearing will determine if Lee’s alleged actions justify detention. Observers are also watching closely to see whether the investigation will expand to directly involve the former first lady. Legal specialists note that linking political figures to market manipulation could set significant precedents for corporate accountability in South Korea.
Experts point out that the Sambu stock manipulation case could have broader implications for governance. Investigators are examining communications, financial records, and public statements to determine if profits resulted from stock manipulation or political influence. Moreover, the case underscores the importance of transparency in both political and corporate sectors.
Overall, the Sambu stock manipulation investigation highlights rising scrutiny in South Korea’s financial and political landscape. Authorities aim to determine whether share prices were manipulated purely for profit or influenced by political connections. The outcome may affect corporate governance and reinforce accountability for business activities linked to political figures.
