(C) KBS

SEOUL — Kim Kyung, a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, has reportedly departed for the United States just as police launched a formal investigation into allegations that she provided 100 million won ($75,000) in "nomination bribes" to independent lawmaker Kang Sun-woo.

According to police and political sources on January 5, Councilwoman Kim left South Korea late last month, citing a visit to her children residing in the U.S. The timing of her departure has raised significant concerns, as it occurred just days before the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Public Crime Investigation Unit officially began its probe into the case on January 1.

The Allegations: Cash for Candidacy
The scandal dates back to April 2022, ahead of the 8th nationwide local elections. Kim is accused of delivering 100 million won to Kang Sun-woo—who was then a member of the Democratic Party’s Seoul Nomination Management Committee—to secure her candidacy.

The case gained explosive traction following the release of a leaked transcript. In the recording, lawmaker Kim Byung-kee (then-Secretary of the Nomination Committee) is heard asking Kang about the 100 million won held by a regional aide. Kang reportedly responded in a distressed tone, pleading, "Please save me," while admitting the funds were being kept by her staff. Despite being initially "cut off" (excluded) from the nomination due to property speculation issues, Councilwoman Kim was miraculously granted a "single nomination" (uncontested candidacy) the very next day after the recorded conversation took place.

Political Fallout and Investigation Hurdles
The repercussions have been swift within the political sphere:

Kang Sun-woo: Expelled from the Democratic Party on January 1, 2026, and is now an independent lawmaker. She denies the charges, claiming she ordered the money to be returned immediately.
Kim Byung-kee: The former floor leader is also under fire for allegedly overlooking the bribery despite being aware of the illicit funds.
Police Status: Authorities have requested a "notification upon entry" for Councilwoman Kim. However, because she departed before a formal travel ban was issued, the investigation into the "key witness and suspect" is expected to face significant delays.

Growing Public Outcry
Critics argue that the Democratic Party’s initial dismissal of the case as "individual deviation" fails to address systemic flaws in the nomination process. As the police prepare to summon Kang’s former chief of staff and other involved parties this week, the absence of Kim Kyung remains a critical roadblock in uncovering the "smoking gun" of the 100 million won’s final destination.

"It is highly suspicious that a key figure in a major corruption probe leaves the country exactly when the investigation reaches its peak," said a representative from a local civic group. "The government must ensure a swift return to maintain the integrity of the judicial process."

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