South Korea’s ambassador to Australia steps down amid investigation controversy
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NEW DELHI: South Korea’s ambassador to Australia has resigned amid controversies surrounding his appointment during a corruption probe, adding pressure on President Yoon Suk Yeol’s ruling party ahead of a crucial parliamentary election.
Lee Jong-sup, who took up the ambassadorial role just four weeks ago, is facing scrutiny for allegedly trying to influence an investigation into the death of a marine while serving as defense minister.
“His resignation was reported to the president and it has been decided it will be accepted,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
The ambassador has refuted any accusations and said he was willing to cooperate fully with the investigation.
Criticism mounted against Lee’s appointment when he traveled to Canberra on March 10, which members of the opposition party denounced as an effort to avoid questioning regarding the case.
Certain individuals within Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) have also expressed disapproval, stating that Lee was an unfit choice for an ambassador and that his departure was a misstep.
Upon returning to Seoul last week for official engagements, Lee stated his intention to address questions from the national corruption agency overseeing the case.
However, the controversy surrounding his appointment and sudden departure persisted, with some PPP members suggesting that he posed a political liability as the party aims to regain control of parliament in the April 10 elections.
The anti-corruption agency is probing allegations against Lee related to purported government interference in an investigation into the death of a marine who participated in a flood rescue operation last year.
Lee Jong-sup, who took up the ambassadorial role just four weeks ago, is facing scrutiny for allegedly trying to influence an investigation into the death of a marine while serving as defense minister.
“His resignation was reported to the president and it has been decided it will be accepted,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
The ambassador has refuted any accusations and said he was willing to cooperate fully with the investigation.
Criticism mounted against Lee’s appointment when he traveled to Canberra on March 10, which members of the opposition party denounced as an effort to avoid questioning regarding the case.
Certain individuals within Yoon’s People Power Party (PPP) have also expressed disapproval, stating that Lee was an unfit choice for an ambassador and that his departure was a misstep.
Upon returning to Seoul last week for official engagements, Lee stated his intention to address questions from the national corruption agency overseeing the case.
However, the controversy surrounding his appointment and sudden departure persisted, with some PPP members suggesting that he posed a political liability as the party aims to regain control of parliament in the April 10 elections.
The anti-corruption agency is probing allegations against Lee related to purported government interference in an investigation into the death of a marine who participated in a flood rescue operation last year.
