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Police Raid DP Lawmaker Kim Byung-kee as Party Moves to Expel Him

The probe focuses on suspected illicit nomination funds as his expulsion awaits final party votes.

Overview

  • Seoul police searched six locations tied to Kim, including his home, National Assembly office and the Dongjak Ward Council, seizing documents and data for analysis.
  • Investigators imposed travel bans on Kim, his wife and three Dongjak council members and plan to summon him after reviewing seized materials.
  • Police suspect Kim received a total of 30 million won in illegal political funds from two local council members in 2020 and later returned the money.
  • The Democratic Party’s ethics committee voted Jan. 12 to expel Kim after a nine-hour review that considered the party’s three-year disciplinary statute of limitations.
  • Final expulsion requires approval by the Supreme Council and a majority vote of DP lawmakers; Kim has appealed, denies wrongdoing and faces additional allegations involving luxury perks, family-related improprieties and hospitality from major companies.