Investigation into Reform Party's Jeong widens as police raid father's hospital over election mobilization allegations

Police have broadened their investigation into Jeong I-han, the former Reform Party candidate for Busan mayor who was detained on suspicion of staging a fake assault on himself, and are now pursuing several other allegations against him.

The Busan Metropolitan Police Agency's anti-corruption and financial crimes unit conducted search and seizure operations Wednesday morning and afternoon at hospitals affiliated with On Group, a conglomerate run by Jeong's father.

The searches stem from a complaint filed by the National Election Commission alleging that employees of the affiliated companies were mobilized for Jeong's campaign. The allegation centers on claims that employees were directed to post supportive comments online and instructed to join a political party around the time of the campaign period.

The Public Official Election Act prohibits using one's professional authority within an organization to compel its members to engage in campaign activities.

The searches focused primarily on work computers at the hospitals. A police official said the searches were conducted "to verify the allegations," but added, "We cannot disclose the specifics."

Police are investigating four broad areas involving Jeong, including the staged assault.

In connection with the fake assault, police have detained Jeong and his alleged accomplice — a personal trainer and decade-long acquaintance identified only as A — on charges including obstruction of official duties by deception and violations of the Public Official Election Act. Investigators are also examining financial transactions between the two to determine whether any payment was made in exchange for the scheme. The case is set to be referred to prosecutors Thursday.

Police are also investigating whether the hospital run by Jeong's father violated medical law in issuing a medical certificate following the staged assault, and whether a polling agency linked to Jeong operated impartially.