Kang Sun-woo’s Controversial 1 Billion Won Gift: Political Fallout and Denial Explained

Independent lawmaker Kang Sun-woo, who was expelled from the Democratic Party, sent a letter to Democratic Party members on the 10th, reiterating his denial of allegations regarding campaign donation acceptance. He stated, “100 million KRW (about 75,000 USD) is not worth risking my political career or my life.”

In a four-page letter sent to each Democratic Party lawmaker’s office, Kang expressed, “I sincerely apologize for causing concern. All of this is due to my shortcomings and negligence.”

Regarding allegations of receiving a shopping bag containing 100 million KRW (about 75,000 USD) from former Seoul City Council member Kim Kyung in January 2022, Kang explained, “My assistant introduced me to Mr. Kim, saying he would recommend a good person. The shopping bag, which I received as a customary gift, was stored in my home’s storage room as it was given. Due to my habit of forgetting about items, I also forgot about that gift.”

He continued, stating that after suggesting at a Democratic Party Seoul City Committee meeting to “find a young female candidate for a successful election,” he later learned from Mr. Kim that the gift in the shopping bag was worth 100 million KRW (about 75,000 USD). Kang claimed he immediately instructed his assistant to return it.

Addressing the fact that Mr. Kim, who was ineligible for candidacy at the time due to owning multiple properties, ultimately received a single nomination, Kang said, “From an objective standpoint, I responded in favor of candidate Kim, who scored much higher than the existing candidates. This decision was made after discussions and resolutions by the nomination committee.”

Kang’s letter comes as the National Assembly is expected to vote on a motion to approve his arrest during an upcoming plenary session.

On the 5th, prosecutors filed a request for an arrest warrant against Kang with the court. The National Assembly is currently in a temporary session in February, and sitting lawmakers cannot be arrested or detained without the Assembly’s consent during the session.

For Kang’s pre-arrest interrogation to take place in court, a majority of lawmakers must be present at the National Assembly plenary session, and a majority of those present must approve the arrest motion.