Probe on Pres.-elect Could See Venue Change

The independent counsel probing fraud charges involving President-elect Lee Myung-bak said Sunday that it could conduct the investigation somewhere other than its office or that of the presidential transition committee.

Reporters asked lead counsel Chung Ho-young if the investigation could be held in another place, to which he responded that his team is reviewing a number of ways to conduct its investigation.

The presidential transition committee and the conservative Grand National Party also warned of political abuse if the process of Lee’s summons and questioning is made public by the media. The committee has reportedly requested a written investigation for security reasons if the probe takes place outside of its office.

Prosecutors, however, seem determined to push for a face-to-face investigation to fend off public criticism of an “insufficient” investigation.

bell@donga.com