Ex-Deputy Kim Testifies in Robot Dog Scandal Probe

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Kim Sung-hoon Testifies in Robot Dog Contract Investigation

Kim Sung-hoon, a former deputy chief of the Presidential Security Service, appeared as a reference witness on the 19th in connection with the ‘robot dog supply project’ during an investigation led by a special counsel team examining the activities of former first lady Kim Keon-hee.

The Presidential Security Service, operating under the Presidential Office, entered into a negotiated contract with Drone Dome, a company specializing in robot dog rentals, in September 2022. The agreement was for a pilot operation focused on the use of robot dogs for security purposes. According to reports, the contract was valued at approximately 18 million Korean won for a period of three months.

The special counsel is currently investigating whether Seo Sung-bin, the representative of Drone Dome, may have provided financial benefits or gifts to Mrs. Kim in exchange for securing this government contract. Specifically, it has been alleged that Seo gave Mrs. Kim a Vacheron Constantin watch worth around 54 million Korean won in 2022. Additionally, it was reported that Seo received cash payments totaling approximately 5 million Korean won from Mrs. Kim between May and June of the same year to secure the watch.

On the 20th, the special counsel summoned Seo for further questioning regarding these allegations. This follows an earlier investigation where Seo was called as a reference witness on the 17th. In August, the special counsel conducted search and seizure operations at both Seo’s residence and the offices of Drone Dome.

Key Points of the Investigation

  • Contract Details: The Presidential Security Service signed a contract with Drone Dome for the use of robot dogs in security operations.
  • Alleged Gifts: Seo Sung-bin is suspected of providing a high-value watch to Mrs. Kim in 2022.
  • Cash Payments: It is claimed that Mrs. Kim gave Seo cash to reserve the watch.
  • Investigation Actions: The special counsel has summoned Seo for questioning and conducted searches at his residence and Drone Dome’s office.

The ongoing investigation continues to scrutinize the relationships and transactions involving key figures in the presidential administration. As more evidence comes to light, the special counsel is expected to provide further updates on the progress of the case.

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