Special probe searches former minister's phone over highway route change allegations

South Korea's special prosecutor's office has initiated a forceful investigation into former Minister of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport, Won Hee-ryong, concerning the controversial "Yangpyeong highway route change" allegations. The special prosecutor, Kwon Chang-young, reportedly executed a search and seizure warrant on Won's mobile phone on July 15.

Investigators aim to question Won soon regarding accusations of abuse of power. The core of the allegations centers on claims that the highway project's endpoint was shifted to benefit land owned by the family of the first lady, Kim Keon-hee. This alleged route change occurred during the project's feasibility study phase in 2023.

Following public outcry over the potential favoritism, Won Hee-ryong, who was the minister at the time, declared the project's cancellation in July of the same year. This decision, however, did not quell the controversy, leading to the current special investigation.

Previously, a different special prosecution team had indicted several Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, and Transport officials. These indictments were related to suspicions that they influenced the feasibility study to favor an alternative route passing near land owned by the first lady's family. Won Hee-ryong has denied all allegations, recently stating on social media that the special prosecutor's office is engaging in "humiliating media play" and challenging them to arrest him if they believe he committed a crime.

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The special prosecutor's office is engaging in “humiliating media play.” If you have guilt, arrest me.