 |
Kang Ho-dong, Chairman of the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NACF). (Photo = Yonhap News) |
[Alpha Biz= Kim Jisun] Seoul, October 15 — The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s Anti-Corruption Investigation Division has launched a forcible investigation into Kang Ho-dong, Chairman of the National Agricultural Cooperative Federation (NH Nonghyup), over allegations of bribery linked to his election campaign.
Police conducted search and seizure operations earlier today at Kang’s office inside the NH Nonghyup headquarters in Saemunan-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul, as part of the widening probe.
According to investigators, Kang allegedly received around ₩100 million (approximately $72,000) from a business operator connected to NH Retail ahead of the January 2024 NH chairman election. Police suspect that the money was delivered in two installments of ₩50 million each at the end of 2023.
Authorities began a preliminary inquiry in July 2025 following a tip-off, and have since interviewed multiple witnesses. The investigation is now escalating into a full-fledged bribery case.
Kang was elected in January 2024, becoming the first NH Nonghyup chairman chosen through a direct vote in 17 years. He is currently serving his term.
Alphabiz 이준현 기자(wtcloud83@alphabiz.co.kr)
