By Jane Han Staff Reporter Ahead of the Aug. 15 ``special amnesty,'' business groups are preparing a joint petition demanding a broad range of business people who've been penalized for involvement in wrongdoings be included in what is eyed as the ``participatory government's'' last large-scale pardon. The upcoming amnesty is garnering more interest because Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group Chairman Chung Mong-koo and Hanwha Chairman Kim Seung Youn, who are both currently on trial, could be granted amnesty if they do not appeal after their initial hearings. There's also a growing possibility that former Daewoo Group Chairman Kim Woo-joong, who was declined in last February's pardon for unpaid fines, will be on the August list again. Some of the illegal practices that business executives were found guilty of include giving illegal political funds and cooking their books. The Korea Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), the Federation of Korean Industries (FKI) and the Korea International Trade Association (KITA) are some of the groups working toward a petition. ``Business leaders face realistic barriers when they have this unlawful tag following them, which is why the pardon is crucial.'' said Lee Hyun-seok, vice president of KCCI. He explained that some of the roadblocks include the difficulty of bringing in foreign investment, regaining trust from others and also for the construction businesses, being named as a company CEO is impossible. ``This will probably be the last large-scale amnesty because the Christmas pardon won't be as big, as it will also come after the presidential election,'' Lee said, ``But we're optimistic about the upcoming pardon in August.'' He added that discussion is under way with the other participating groups, but a more detailed schedule will take shape early next week. ``A list must be written up and submitted by sometime next month,'' Lee said, adding that such pardons will help enliven the business community, as many of the executives involved are influential leaders. A KITA official agreed, ``Many of the businessmen mentioned make a mark not only in the business world, but also in our society, so if they were to make up for their past and return with a positive push, it would be beneficial for most.'' jhan@koreatimes.co.kr