Seoul: The culture and sports ministry announced on Monday the suspension of duties for Lee Kee-heung, the president of the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee, amid allegations of misconduct.According to Yonhap News Agency, the ethics inspection team under the Office for Government Policy Coordination revealed on Sunday that it had requested police involvement to investigate Lee and other sports officials. The allegations include improper hiring practices and misuse of funds. In response, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism called for a prompt investigation and took the step of suspending Lee's duties.Under existing laws, an executive officer of a public institution can face suspension if suspected of misconduct, which can include financial improprieties or sexual crimes. Lee is specifically accused of manipulating job requirements at the Jincheon National Training Center to facilitate the hiring of a friend of his children. Allegations suggest he circumvented an internal report to lower the appli cant's salary and replaced an official who opposed his plan.Further accusations have surfaced claiming Lee recommended five acquaintances for positions in Korea's delegation to the Paris Olympics, along with offering them travel incentives that were not initially planned.
- October 12, 2026
