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Chungbuk Governor Kim Young-hwan is under police investigation for allegedly receiving cash envelopes from sports officials, having his farm shed repair costs covered, and providing preferential smart farm operating rights. Kim denies the charges, claiming political motives.

Chungbuk Governor Kim Young-hwan Under Police Investigation for Bribery and Preferential Treatment

Chungbuk Governor Kim Young-hwan has been under police investigation since an office raid last August, accused of receiving 11 million won in cash envelopes from sports officials before an overseas trip. He also faces allegations of having his farm shed repair costs of 20 million won paid by a sports official and granting Chungbuk Province's smart farm operating rights to a sports official without proper public bidding procedures. The police are confident in proving all charges, having also sought an arrest warrant for the farm shed contractor who allegedly falsified construction records to match Governor Kim's claims, citing evidence destruction.

Governor Kim Denies Charges, Citing 'Political Motives'

Upon the issuance of the arrest warrant, Governor Kim Young-hwan held a press conference, denying the charges and claiming they were driven by "political motives." He even stated that the arrest warrant was a relief, as it would allow him to prove his innocence through the court's judgment. Governor Kim explained that the police investigation, which had seemingly concluded last year, was prolonged by the need to review his rebuttal materials. On June 26, Governor Kim was accused of receiving 5 million won (2.5 million won each) from the Chungbuk Sports Council Chairman and the Chungbuk Volleyball Association Chairman. However, Yoon Du-yeong, the Chungbuk Volleyball Association Chairman, claimed he only lent 2.5 million won to Chairman Yoon Hyun-woo.

Controversy Over Drinking During Osong Tragedy Memorial Week and Past Actions Re-examined

Chungbuk Governor Kim Young-hwan faced controversy after attending a drinking party with three Cheongju City Council members at a restaurant in Cheongju on July 12, just before the second anniversary of the Osong tragedy. Photos showed Governor Kim and the city council members smiling with alcoholic beverages. This drew criticism as Governor Kim himself had declared a "memorial week" on July 7, urging people to refrain from drinking parties and other entertainment to create a solemn atmosphere. Governor Kim's office clarified that the gathering was for discussing current issues, and he only had one or two beers at the request of the council members, apologizing for causing concern to the public. Governor Kim had previously apologized two years prior for drinking at a drinking party on the evening a Level 1 response was issued during the Jecheon wildfire.

*Source: YouTube: MBC News (2026-03-18)*

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