South Korea’s Ex-President Moon Jae-in Indicted for Bribery Over Son-in-Law Hiring Scandal
Date: 24-apr-2025
Image By The White House from Washington, DC - #UNGA, Public Domain, Link
In a dramatic development that has rocked South Korean politics, former President Moon Jae-in was formally indicted on April 24, 2025, for alleged bribery. The indictment stems from an alleged exchange of political favor involving the hiring of his son-in-law at a domestic airline.
Details of the Allegation
According to the Jeonju District Prosecutors' Office, Moon is accused of using his influence in 2018 to secure the appointment of former lawmaker Lee Sang-jik as head of the Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Startups Agency. In return, Lee allegedly hired Moon's son-in-law at Eastar Jet, a low-cost airline Lee had previously controlled.
- The son-in-law reportedly received 217 million won (~$150,000 USD) in salary and benefits
- Prosecutors argue he lacked relevant aviation or business experience
- Moon’s daughter and son-in-law were not indicted
The prosecution claims that the hiring constituted an indirect kickback in exchange for political support.
Moon’s Response and Political Fallout
Moon Jae-in, who served as president from 2017 to 2022, has denied any wrongdoing. His Democratic Party called the charges “baseless and politically motivated,” accusing the current administration of abusing prosecutorial power to target political rivals.
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The timing of the indictment is particularly contentious, coming just weeks after former President Yoon Suk Yeol was impeached and removed from office following a failed attempt to impose martial law during political unrest.
A Pattern of Presidential Prosecutions
Moon’s indictment continues a troubling trend in South Korean politics where former presidents often face legal action post-tenure. Notable examples include Park Geun-hye and Lee Myung-bak, both of whom served prison time for corruption-related charges.
What Happens Next?
The case is now expected to proceed to trial in the coming months. Political observers are watching closely, as the outcome could significantly impact Moon’s legacy and further polarize an already divided electorate.
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