25.11.16.Today News : Kim Ho-jung Faces Bribery Demand Allegation from Somang Prison Officer as Justice Ministry Launches Investigation

Kim Ho-jung Faces Bribery Demand Allegation from Somang Prison Officer as Justice Ministry Launches Investigation

📍Officer accused of claiming influence in Ho-jung’s prison placement and requesting 30 million KRW in return

Singer Kim Ho-jung, who is currently serving his sentence for a DUI hit-and-run, has reportedly been pressured to pay tens of millions of won to a correctional officer at Somang Prison. The Justice Ministry has initiated an investigation, while increased attention is drawn to the prison’s unique private system and selection process.

Allegations have surfaced that Kim Ho-joong was pressured by a guard at Somae Prison to hand over tens of millions of won worth of valuables while serving his sentence, prompting the Ministry of Justice to launch an investigation into the matter.

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🔹 Alleged Bribery Demand…Justice Ministry Begins Probe
Kim Ho-jung, who is serving a prison sentence at Somang Prison, was allegedly asked to pay 30 million KRW by officer A. According to the Justice Ministry, the Seoul Regional Correctional Headquarters is currently investigating whether the officer demanded money in exchange for facilitating Kim’s placement at the privately operated Somang Prison.

It is reported that Kim felt pressured that refusal could affect his treatment during incarceration, prompting him to report the situation to another officer.

🔹 Background of Kim’s Case…DUI Hit-and-run and Prison Transfer
Kim was indicted after causing a collision with a taxi while driving under the influence and fleeing the scene. He then had his manager turn himself in on his behalf.

In April, the appellate court upheld the first trial’s sentence of two years and six months in prison. Kim was transferred from Seoul Detention Center to Somang Prison in August.

🔹 Controversy Over Alleged Special Treatment in Prison Admission
Somang Prison is known among inmates for its superior facilities and programs compared to ordinary prisons.
As Korea’s only private prison, it operates with stringent admission requirements, leading to suspicions that certain staff members may have influence over the selection process.

However, the Justice Ministry stated that no evidence of actual monetary exchange or influence was found so far.

🔹 Unique Features of Korea’s Only Private Prison
Established in 2010 by a Christian foundation, Somang Prison receives about 90% of its operating budget from the government. Inmates are addressed by name rather than number, and share the same meals as the staff, fostering a community-centered environment.

Programs include MBTI testing, depression assessments, humanities classes, music and art education, and spiritual training. Events such as communal barbecues are also held.

Somang Prison’s per-inmate living space is 3.98㎡, wider than the 2.58㎡ average at typical prisons, and the occupancy rate remains lower at 98%.

🔹 Justice Ministry Continues Fact-finding Efforts
Authorities will continue to investigate whether coercion or abuse of authority occurred. Kim Ho-jung’s side has not released an official statement, and it remains uncertain whether they will respond publicly to the allegations.

One-line summary : Singer Kim Ho-jung is under alleged pressure for a 30 million KRW bribe from a Somang Prison officer, prompting a Justice Ministry investigation.