Han Byung-do Calls for Investigation into Allegations of Corruption in Han River Bus Operations

Han Byung-do, the floor leader of the Democratic Party, urged on October 16 for a thorough investigation into allegations that Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon attempted to cover up misconduct related to the Han River Bus operations. He stated, "The circumstances surrounding the misconduct and its concealment must be fully revealed, including whether the mayor himself was involved."

During a Supreme Council meeting held at the Democratic Party's Busan headquarters, Han described the allegations of misconduct that emerged during the Seoul City National Assembly audit the previous day as "shocking."

He noted, "There are suspicions that the Han River Bus, which has effectively turned into a sightseeing cruise, not only faced issues of poor management but also that internal audits regarding potential kickbacks were suppressed. We need to clarify whether the Han River Bus, which was supposed to be a means of transportation for citizens, has instead become a tool for someone to enrich themselves."

Han further pointed out that the Seoul City Audit Committee had detected misconduct related to contracts with shipbuilding companies and had even prepared a request for investigation. However, he claimed that after the report was made to Mayor Oh, the investigation request was not pursued, and there were sudden orders to destroy all investigation materials. "If true, this would indicate an attempt to cover up the 'Han River Bus Gate,'" he said.

He emphasized the need to uncover who ordered the halt of the investigation and the destruction of materials, stating, "Although Mayor Oh claimed that he initiated an audit by the Board of Audit and Inspection, that alone does not absolve him of the current allegations. All related materials must be disclosed, and an independent investigation is necessary to uncover the truth."

During the National Assembly's Administrative Safety Committee audit the day before, Mayor Oh stated that he had instructed preparations for a request for investigation and an audit by the Board of Audit and Inspection regarding the allegations. He mentioned that after the request was dismissed, the Seoul City Audit Committee is currently conducting its own investigation and will request an investigation if necessary based on the findings.