Yangpyeong Expressway Travel Ban: Lawmaker Kim Sun-kyo Denounces Political Retaliation, Calls for Immediate Summons

Introduction: The Yangpyeong Expressway Scandal and Political Tensions

Did you know that the Yangpyeong Expressway issue has become one of the hottest topics in Korean politics? On June 7, 2025, Kim Sun-kyo, a lawmaker from the People Power Party and former Yangpyeong County mayor, held a press conference at the National Assembly. He fiercely criticized the special prosecutor Min Jung-ki's team for imposing a travel ban on him during the investigation into alleged preferential treatment for First Lady Kim Gun-hee’s family regarding the expressway’s route change. Kim called the ban a clear act of political oppression and demanded to be summoned quickly, expressing shock and frustration over the situation. This event has sparked widespread debate about the intersection of politics, justice, and infrastructure in South Korea.

Background: The Yangpyeong Expressway Route Change Controversy

The controversy centers on the sudden change of the Seoul-Yangpyeong Expressway’s endpoint in May 2023. Originally, the expressway was to terminate in Yangseo-myeon, but it was rerouted to Gangsang-myeon, where land owned by Kim Gun-hee’s family is located. This fueled suspicions that the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport granted preferential treatment to benefit the First Lady’s family by increasing the value of their land. The project’s abrupt cancellation by former Land Minister Won Hee-ryong only intensified public scrutiny and political rivalry, with opposition parties demanding full transparency and accountability.

Kim Sun-kyo’s Defense and Press Conference Highlights

Kim Sun-kyo adamantly denied any knowledge of Kim Gun-hee’s family land near the new expressway endpoint, regardless of the route version. He questioned the logic behind the travel ban, stating it was unreasonable to believe he would abandon his family and constituents to flee abroad. Kim emphasized that the original route lacked an interchange (IC) within Yangpyeong, making the highway practically useless for local residents. He argued that the route change was a necessary adjustment to benefit the community, not a move to serve private interests.

Special Prosecutor’s Investigation and Widening Scope

The special investigation, led by Min Jung-ki, has expanded to include not only Kim Sun-kyo but also former Land Minister Won Hee-ryong and members of Kim Gun-hee’s family. The team has enforced travel bans on key figures and is reportedly preparing to summon them for questioning. The investigation covers a broad range of allegations, from stock manipulation to bribery and unlawful electioneering, all linked to Kim Gun-hee and her relatives. The probe’s high profile and political sensitivity have made it a focal point of national attention, with both ruling and opposition parties trading accusations of abuse of power and political vendettas.

Community and Media Reactions: Polarized Opinions

Korean online communities such as DC Inside, Theqoo, and FM Korea are buzzing with debate. Some users argue that the travel ban is justified, given the gravity of the allegations and the need to prevent flight risk. Others see it as overreach and a politically motivated attack on the opposition. Representative comments include: 'If he’s innocent, why fear an investigation?' and 'This is just another witch hunt by the special prosecutor.' Naver and Tistory blogs echo these sentiments, with some bloggers analyzing the timeline of the route change and others focusing on the broader implications for Korean democracy.

Cultural Context: Why Expressway Projects Matter in Korea

For international readers, it’s important to understand that expressway projects in Korea are more than just infrastructure—they’re deeply tied to regional development, real estate speculation, and political power. The Yangpyeong Expressway, with a budget of nearly 1.8 trillion won, was seen as a major boon for local economies. Allegations of preferential treatment touch a nerve in Korean society, where land speculation scandals have repeatedly undermined public trust in government. The fact that the First Lady’s family is involved only amplifies public outrage and media scrutiny.

Political Fallout: Special Prosecution, Parliamentary Inquiries, and Party Clashes

The opposition Democratic Party has called for a permanent special prosecution system to investigate Kim Gun-hee and related figures, arguing that only an independent probe can restore public confidence. The ruling People Power Party, meanwhile, accuses the opposition of weaponizing the investigation for political gain. Parliamentary debates have become heated, with both sides demanding transparency but casting doubt on each other’s motives. The controversy has even led to proposals for new laws aimed at preventing future conflicts of interest in public projects.

International and Fan Community Insights

From a global perspective, this scandal highlights the complexities of Korean politics, where personal relationships, real estate, and public infrastructure intersect. International fans of Korean culture may be surprised by the intensity of the debate and the role that online communities play in shaping public opinion. The case also serves as a reminder of the challenges facing democracies worldwide when it comes to balancing political accountability and due process.

Conclusion: What’s Next for Kim Sun-kyo and the Yangpyeong Expressway Case?

As of June 13, 2025, the investigation is ongoing, with travel bans in place and public anticipation mounting for upcoming summons and hearings. Kim Sun-kyo continues to assert his innocence and demand a fair, transparent process. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for Korean politics, infrastructure policy, and public trust. For now, all eyes remain on the special prosecutor’s office and the unfolding drama at the heart of Korea’s political landscape.