Bail denied for ex-detective accused of burying fraud case involving broadcaster Yang Jeong-won

A Seoul court has rejected a bail application from a former Gangnam Police Station investigation team leader charged with accepting bribes to suppress a fraud case involving broadcaster Yang Jeong-won, a former Pilates instructor.

Seoul Southern District Court Judge Han Jeong-seok denied the bail request from the former team leader, identified only by his surname Song, on Wednesday. Song, who holds the rank of inspector, faces charges of bribery, abuse of authority and leaking official secrets.

The court said it found reason to believe Song could destroy evidence if released.

Song will therefore remain in detention for the duration of his trial.

Song was indicted in August on suspicion of dropping the fraud investigation into Yang after being contacted by a Korean National Police Agency inspector, surnamed Lee, who was acquainted with Yang's husband. Yang had been named as a suspect in the fraud case at the time.

Investigators found that Song had reclassified Yang in the police database from "suspect" to "reference witness," effectively removing her from the scope of the investigation.

Song is also alleged to have received luxury scarves and entertainment at a hostess bar worth several million won from Lee.

Both Song and the KNPA inspector Lee have been relieved of their duties. The next hearing is scheduled for Oct. 28.