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Ex-lawmaker quizzed in POSCO probe
By Lee Kyung-min
Former lawmaker Lee Sang-deuk answers reporters’ questions before facing questioning about corruption allegations involving POSCO at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office in southern Seoul, Monday. / Yonhap
By Lee Kyung-min
The prosecution questioned former lawmaker Lee Sang-deuk, Monday, over allegations that he played a key role in several corruption cases involving POSCO.
The elder brother of former president Lee Myung-bak was summoned two years after serving a 14-month prison sentence for bribery.
He appeared at the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office at 10:22 a.m. Before entering the office for questioning, Lee, 80, flatly denied all allegations. “I came here not knowing why I should be here,” he told reporters. “I have nothing to say. I am tired of answering all the questions.”
Asked whether he received illegal political funds and whether he was involved in contracts between POSCO and a subcontractor, he said, “I absolutely did not and was not.”
Prosecutors questioned him on whether he received illegal political funds in return for helping the steel giant build a new steel mill in 2009.
According to prosecutors, POSCO placed several orders with TM Tech, a Pohang-based steel mill facility management firm owned by Lee’s close friend, surnamed Park. Prosecutors confirmed that Park received 2 billion won in dividend income from the company, and suspect that part of the money was used in managing the office of Lee, a Pohang-based six-term lawmaker.
Prosecutors suspect Lee helped resolve a conflict among POSCO, Pohang City and the Ministry of National Defense regarding the steel mill, and that POSCO repaid him by placing orders with TM Tech.
The prosecution also questioned Lee about alleged influence peddling in appointing former POSCO Chairman Chung Joon-yang.
It is considering charging Lee with bribery or illegally receiving political funds. If prosecutors consider the alleged illegal gains are substantial, officials may seek an arrest warrant.
In July 2012, Lee was jailed for receiving illegal political funds worth 760 million won from two savings banks.
The prosecution is also considering summoning Rep. Lee Byung-suk of the ruling Saenuri Party over allegations that he received illegal political funds from POSCO in a similar manner.