Democratic Party orders ethics probe into Kim scandal

Apr 02, 2026, 09:04 am

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Kim Kwan-young, governor of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province, who is embroiled in allegations of distributing cash envelopes, spoke to reporters at the provincial office on April 1, saying, “I gave money for driver-for-hire fees to young people and later collected it back,” adding that he would fully explain the matter to the party’s ethics inspection team. / Yonhap

Kim Kwan-young, governor of Jeonbuk Special Self-Governing Province and a member of the Democratic Party, has come under intensifying scrutiny over allegations that he distributed cash envelopes ahead of the June 3 local elections.

Jung Cheong-rae, leader of the Democratic Party, on April 1 ordered an emergency ethics inspection into Kim following a tip-off, according to party officials. Details of the report, however, were not disclosed.

The Jeonbuk Provincial Police Agency’s anti-corruption unit also launched an investigation after receiving a complaint alleging that Kim handed out cash to young people at a recent restaurant gathering. Authorities are currently examining the facts by questioning the complainant and attendees. The provincial election commission has likewise begun a separate inquiry.

Kim is suspected of personally distributing money during a dinner meeting with local youth in late November last year, a period when election activity was ramping up with multiple candidacy announcements.

Responding to the allegations, Kim acknowledged that he had provided a total of 680,000 won (about $500) as driver-for-hire fees. “After making the payments, I felt uneasy and instructed that the money be collected back. The full amount was returned the next day,” he said. The amounts reportedly varied by region, including 20,000 won for Jeonju residents and up to 100,000 won for those from more distant areas.

Kim admitted fault, stating, “I had envelopes of cash in my bag for emergencies, and I gave out amounts ranging from 10,000 to 50,000 won. Giving the money itself was my mistake.”

The controversy comes as Kim prepares to face Rep. Lee Won-taek in a party primary scheduled to take place over three days starting April 8.

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