Ruling party leader alleges 'fabricated charges' in N. Korea transfer case

April 9 (Asia Today) -- A senior lawmaker from South Korea's ruling Democratic Party on Wednesday accused the previous administration of orchestrating a politically motivated prosecution in a high-profile case involving alleged illegal transfers to North Korea.

Han Byeong-do, floor leader of the Democratic Party, said the investigation into the Ssangbangwool remittance case was not an isolated action by prosecutors but part of a broader effort by the former government to target President Lee Jae-myung.

"The essence of this case was an attempt by the former administration to take down Lee Jae-myung," Han said during a party policy meeting.

He alleged that evidence had been manipulated and statements coerced during the investigation, describing the case as a "planned crime at the government level." Han also claimed the presidential office at the time influenced state agencies, including national security and intelligence bodies, in the process.

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The Democratic Party said it would pursue a special counsel investigation following a parliamentary probe to determine whether the charges were fabricated and to hold those responsible accountable.

"We will uncover the full truth and bring all those responsible to justice without exception," Han said.

Han also criticized the conservative opposition People Power Party over its stance on constitutional reform, accusing it of politicizing the issue for short-term gain.

He urged bipartisan cooperation, warning that failure to support constitutional amendments could be seen as obstructing the country's future.

The allegations relate to an ongoing political controversy over whether payments made by the Ssangbangwool Group to North Korea were linked to Lee, who has denied wrongdoing.

-- Reported by Asia Today; translated by UPI

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Original Korean report: https://www.asiatoday.co.kr/kn/view.php?key=20260409010002830