“Investigation Regarding Mr. Kwon Rho-Gap`s Political Fund Requires Explanation”

GNP requested investigation by Special Prosecutor (SP) in connection with suspicious political fund of core members including suspicion that Kwon Rho-Gap, former highest member supported electoral fund for highest member in 2000, and NMDP requested the explanation that how Lee Hoi-Chang, President of GNP, rented his house in Ga Hoi Dong, Jong Rogu, Seoul.

Lee Jae-Oh, floor leader of GNP, said at the three party`s executive meeting “ the problem is whether the money, which is collected through political compromise, is distributed to particular politician and candidates or not ”and “ we should induce SP with regards to 12 core members besides Kwon, former highest member or investigate Lee.Y.H scandal extending the period of SP.”

Lee Kang Du, chairman of policy committee stated “ the matter related to political fund of Kwon, former highest member is directly connected to President Kim Dae-Jung” and “ President Kim should reveal the truth not by keeping quiet but by courageous decisions.”

On the other hand, Seol Hun, member of NMDP resisted at press conference, saying, “the explanation of GNP that President Lee`s couple and first son Mr. Jeong Yeon`s couple is using luxury villa, whose annual expenditure costs 200 million won, by free, is an absurd story” and “ there is even suspicion that President Lee is staying at villa that is under someone else`s name.”

He also resisted “ although explanation of GNP is true, it should be reveled that which family-in law provided 105 pyeong`s Villa for free, and who is the close relative” and “ it is doubtful whether donation tax was paid properly or not.”

On the other hand, Kwon, former highest member said at press conference regarding suspicion of electoral fund, “ No one (whom I gave money to) is in my memory except Mr. Kim Keun-Tae and Jeong Dong-Yeong” and, “ How can I remember all, since there is not only one or two whom I helped.”

Kwon, former highest member stated regarding the origin of 40 million won with which he supported two people, saying, “some of money which was prepared in advance for candidacy of highest member came from the restaurant, and I gave them from that money¡° and, “if prosecutor investigates, I will accept investigation lawfully.”

In-Soo Song issong@donga.com · Young-Hae Choi yhchoi65@donga.com