The head of Samsung Jay Y. Lee denied all charges against him and any involvement in the ongoing corruption scandal, during a court hearing. Lee is currently on trial for bribery, embezzlement, and perjury charges stemming from the same case that got President Park Geun-Hye impeached. Lee is accused of paying $40 million to a friend of the South Korean president Choi Soon-Sil, in exchange for policy favors. Samsung has spoken out about the accusations, claiming the payments were charitable contributions and not bribes. Samsung continues to deny any wrongdoing on its behalf as the trial continues.