Kim Byung-ki, an independent lawmaker formerly of the Democratic Party, has been summoned for police questioning after a two-month delay following the start of investigations into 13 allegations against him, including illegal political fund receipt and attempts to obfuscate his spouse's investigations. He expressed regret over being involved in such events and pledged to clear his name and recover his honor. Authorities have focused on evidence analysis and inquiries into associates, yet concerns arise that they may have missed the timely opportunity to thoroughly investigate the matter.

Kim was summoned on the morning of the 26th by the Seoul Metropolitan Police's Public Crime Investigation Division under the suspicion of bribery and abuse of power. This investigation follows a series of allegations that emerged in December, accumulating a weight of scrutiny especially with potential police restructuring on the horizon concerning the abolition of prosecutors' offices. The police have reportedly concluded preliminary investigations into associates connected to Kim and are proceeding with his questioning, believed to be bolstered by testimonies from local council members who reportedly provided him with illegal political funds prior to the 2020 general elections.

While the police have gathered considerable evidence, including recorded conversations related to claims of misconduct involving Kim’s spouse, Kim continues to vehemently deny the majority of the allegations against him. As the investigation evolves, the implication of these inquiries echoes within the broader political landscape, marking a critical juncture for both Kim and the operating frameworks of law enforcement practices regarding political figures in South Korea.