13th November
By Gim Gihwhan
The caption reads “President Bak formally labelled witness in investigation”
It’s been revealed that the prosecution investigation into current President Bak Geunhye has identified her as a witness. The President said in a statement: “if necessary, I will assist the special prosecution team until their investigation is concluded.” It’s expected that President Bak’s contribution to the case will be made public as interest in the issue is so high. Already suspicion is rampant that traces of President Bak’s involvement with Choi Sunshil, already charged, has been revealed [by the prosecution investigation]. The prosecution will check on Bak’s involvement in the spreading of classified information from the President’s residence, the Blue House, and how Choi has become involved in state affairs.
President Bak’s involvement in soliciting contributions to [Choi-related organisations] Mir and the K-Sports Foundation is also under criminal investigation. Former top Blue House official An Jeongbeom has been required to testify about President’s Bak role in the contributions. Under question is whether President Bak encouraged contributions to these causes during separate meetings with 7 large conglomerates, and whether she discussed cabinet appointments with conglomerate presidents during this process. In addition, the background to the resignation of senior officials of the Ministry of Culture and Sport, who had audited the Korean Equestrian Association (linked to Choi’s family), and remarks made by the President around this issue, are expected to be included in the investigation.
Analysis: it’s astonishing that President Bak hasn’t resigned yet. Surely any evidence of jaebol conglomerate involvement in appointing cabinet members would be the final nail in the coffin? There’s also bound to be widespread disbelief and dismay that she is not being indicted as a formal suspect in the case.