Kim Kyung Bribery Scandal 2022: Seoul Councilor Admits to Nomination Payment

A high-stakes political gamble has backfired in spectacular fashion. Kim Kyung, a member of the Seoul Metropolitan Council, has admitted to delivering a massive sum of cash to secure her candidacy for the 2022 local elections.

The Anatomy of the Kim Kyung Bribery Scandal 2022

According to sources on Friday, Jan. 9, Councilor Kim Kyung submitted a statement to police admitting she handed over 100 million won (approx. $68,600) to an aide of former Democratic Party (DP) Representative Kang Sun-woo. Kim claims she later received the money back, but the admission marks a critical turning point in the long-running investigation into illegal nomination fees.

CES Sighting and Impending Legal Action

The scandal took an unusual turn when Kim was spotted attending CES 2026 in Las Vegas earlier this week. Critics have labeled her trip a "flight from justice," although Kim maintains she'll return this Monday. Upon her arrival at Incheon International Airport, she'll likely face an immediate travel ban and intensive questioning.

Back in Seoul, the People Power Party (PPP) is wasting no time. PPP councilors are currently drafting a motion for Kim's expulsion from the city council. A final decision on her political future is expected as early as next month.