Byeon Admits Jewelry Gifts in Shin-gate Trial
Chosun Ilbo, South Korea
Former chief presidential policy secretary Byeon Yang-kyun admitted he gave jewelry worth tens of millions of won to his mistress Shin Jeong-ah, the disgraced curator at the heart of a fake-degree scandal. The admission came on his fourth trial on charges of influence peddling and bribery in connection with the scandal Monday. But Byeon said Shin had paid part of the costs with gift certificates. According to prosecutors, Byeon gave Shin a diamond ring, a luxury-brand watch, a necklace and a ring worth W47 million (US$1=W934) in total. Byeon said the jewelry was a return present for a painting Shin had given him. Read more about Byeon Admits Jewelry Gifts in Shin-gate Trial …