Seoul, September 7, 2026: South Korean police have asked prosecutors to approve an arrest warrant for independent lawmaker Kim Byung-kee, who is being investigated over allegations involving bribery and obstruction of business, according to officials.

The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency’s public crimes investigation team submitted the warrant request on Monday after an investigation that has continued for roughly a year. Kim previously belonged to the ruling Democratic Party of Korea but is now an independent lawmaker.

Investigators allege that the case is connected to activities involving Kim’s son. Police are examining whether improper financial or other benefits were provided and whether business operations were unlawfully obstructed.

The investigation began in September last year and has now reached a significant stage with police seeking judicial authorization for Kim’s arrest. The request will go through the prosecution before any decision on whether an arrest warrant should be sought from the court.

An arrest-warrant request does not establish guilt. The allegations remain subject to further investigation and judicial proceedings, and Kim will be entitled to challenge the accusations through the legal process.

The case could attract additional political attention because Kim is a former member of the country’s governing party and remains an elected member of the National Assembly.

Police are continuing to examine evidence gathered during the yearlong investigation as authorities determine whether the allegations meet the legal requirements for further prosecution.

The development was reported in South Korea on September 7, 2026, with the Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency confirming that it had applied for the warrant over bribery and obstruction-of-business allegations.