SEOUL — Samsung Group leader Jay Y. Lee appeared at the South Korean special prosecutor’s office for questioning on Monday
as part of a wider investigation into an influence-peddling scandal that could topple President Park Geun-hye.
The special prosecutor has focused on South Korea’s biggest conglomerate, accusing Lee in his capacity as Samsung chief of pledging 43 billion won ($37.31 million) to a business
and organizations backed by Park’s friend, Choi Soon-sil, in exchange for support for a 2015 merger of two Samsung companies.
Proving illicit dealings between Park or her confidantes
and Samsung Group is critical for the special prosecutor’s case that ultimately targets Park, analysts have said.
Lee arrived at the prosecution office in southern Seoul early on Monday in a black sedan, dressed in a dark blue suit
and tie and flanked by Samsung Group officials and his lawyer.
Park was impeached by parliament in December and South Korea’s Constitutional Court will decide whether to uphold that decision.
"I will once again tell the truth to the special prosecution," Samsung Group’s third-generation leader told reporters before entering an elevator.