Posted January. 23, 2002 11:55,
Evidence that President Kim Dae-Jungs relatives were connected to scandals is emerging. Names of his sons came up in connection to various scandals, and now the wifes nephew Lee Hyung-Taek`s name is coming up.
Supposedly, Lee only introduced G&G Group president Lee Yong-Ho to a project that excavates treasures in the sea near Jindo Island, but he was discovered to have been deeply involved. According to prosecutor Cha Jung-Il, who has been investigating the Lee Yong-Ho scandal, he signed a contract to receive 15 percent of the profit. The contract was even notarized.
Lees 15 percent is actually said to be the largest portion, which suggests that he had been leading the project. Evidence that he requested support from a number of governmental institutions including the National Intelligence Service has also been found. Therefore, it has become difficult for the central power-related presidential relatives to avoid raising suspicion in connection with the true nature of the Lee Yong-Ho scandal.
Nonetheless, Lee insisted on his innocence during last years government inspection. It is confirmed that he told a lie before the Assembly as well as the nation`s citizens.
Once marked as president Kims `illegal- money manager`, he is suspected of helping a friend to collect a large amount of money at a security corporation with 1.6 billion won of payment. The very same person then stirred the entire nation with a so- called `treasure- hunt` project.
What, then, about the prosecution that called him last year filed no charges? Another suspicion is added after all; the prosecution is accused of conducting `partial investigation` on the presidents relatives. Related authorities must be blamed. President Kim recently declared war on corruption. In order to gain trust in his words, he must start with his own people including his relatives.
Opportunely, Chong Wa Dae also expressed its hopes for a transparent investigation and disclosure of truth. However, this must not limit the suspicion only to Lee. Names of presidents sons are still in the public eye. Any doubt about anybody must be thoroughly clarified.
The President`s relatives who are connected to the scandals can only discourage administration of the public affairs. It is a valuable lesson from the previous administration, but the present one is ignoring it. The Presidents relatives should have been more careful. President Kim cannot remain fully free from the current situations.