Lawmaker Jang Kyung-tae Referred to Prosecutors Amid Sexual Harassment Allegations
The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency has officially referred lawmaker Jang Kyung-tae to the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office, presenting him with charges of quasi-coercion sexual harassment and violation of the Act on the Protection of Sexual Violence Crimes, specifically concerning secrecy obligations. This significant development follows a comprehensive review of evidence gathered during the investigation and a crucial decision by the Investigation Review Committee (IRC) on the 19th.
The IRC meeting, a rigorous five-hour session, saw the police formally recommend Jang’s referral for the quasi-coercion sexual harassment accusation. While initial considerations for the secrecy obligation violation charge suggested a need for further investigation before referral, the committee ultimately decided to pass both charges onto the prosecution for a final determination.
Jang Kyung-tae, who has since departed from the Democratic Party of Korea and is currently serving as an independent lawmaker, has maintained a consistent stance throughout the investigation. He has repeatedly emphasized the need for additional investigative measures, including polygraph examinations for the complainant and any witnesses present during the alleged incident. During his recent appearance at the IRC, Jang expressed his bewilderment regarding the establishment of secondary harm and asserted that substantial evidence had been secured.
The prosecution will now undertake a thorough review of the investigation materials submitted by the police. This process will culminate in a decision regarding whether to formally indict Jang Kyung-tae.
Broader Investigation Includes Former Secretary
In a related development, the police have also referred Kim, a former secretary in the office of ex-lawmaker Lee Jun-seok, to the prosecution. Kim faces charges of quasi-rape, with his case being handled concurrently with that of Jang Kyung-tae.
The referral of both individuals underscores the seriousness with which these allegations are being treated and highlights the ongoing efforts to ensure accountability within the political sphere. The legal proceedings that follow will be closely watched as they progress through the judicial system. The focus now shifts to the prosecutors’ office as they meticulously examine the evidence and determine the next steps in these complex cases.
