Samsung Vice Chairman Questioned for 22 Hours in Korea Bribery Probe

Prosecutors questioned Samsung’s vice chairman and heir apparent for about 22 hours in an influence-peddling probe that has reached the highest levels of government and business in South Korea, according to Bloomberg.

Jay Y. Lee was released early Friday morning after appearing at the special prosecutor’s offices in central Seoul. Investigators have said Lee, 48, is a suspect in their bribery investigation and that the charges may widen to include allegations of embezzlement and breach of duty. The scion of Korea’s richest family has denied any wrongdoing; Samsung declined further comment.

The influence-peddling scandal has gripped South Korea for months with millions taking to the streets to demand the ouster of President Park Geun-hye. Authorities are looking into whether Samsung and other chaebol business groups made payments to entities controlled by Choi Soon-sil, a Park confidant, in exchange for political favors. In recent weeks, the investigation has homed in on Samsung and payments the company made to foundations controlled by Choi.

Samsung President Park Sang-jin was also questioned, prosecutors said in a text message. He was president of the Korea Equestrian Federation, one entity allegedly involved in the Choi payments. Special prosecutors are planning to widen the probe to other Korean companies.