South Korea’s opposition leader Lee Jae-myung publicly calls for the provisional arrest and extradition of Im Si-in from the Philippines. Im faces connections to the notorious “Telegram Drug King Park Wan-yeol,” imprisoned there over the Satangsu Island murder case that inspired the drama Casino.
Remarks During Manila Business Meeting
At a Manila hotel gathering with Filipino executives on April 4, Lee voiced strong concern for overseas Korean crime victims. “I am deeply worried about crimes targeting our nationals abroad,” he stated. Lee confirmed he formally asked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to secure Im Si-in’s temporary handover.
Persistent Criminal Activity from Prison
Im Si-in serves a 60-year sentence in a Philippine facility yet allegedly directs large-scale operations against South Korea via messaging apps. “From inside prison, he continues exporting these demons to our country using messengers,” Lee remarked. “Such scam networks demand full eradication through rigorous probes.”
Tackling Scams Preying on Koreans
To safeguard citizens, Lee urged focused efforts to dismantle scam groups in nations including Cambodia, Laos, and the Philippines. “Koreans face scams as prime targets, prompting special monitoring and collaborative crackdowns,” he said.
Paegamangsin Syndicate Concerns
The Paegamangsin operation draws particular scrutiny. “Foreign criminals kidnap victims from major nations for these scams, then flock to Korea as ‘victims,’ fueling anti-Korean hatred and unfounded prejudice,” Lee explained. Joint actions have reduced voice phishing and scams against Koreans by 22 percent. Southeast Asian partners show similar declines.
Social Media Rebuttal on Investments
Responding to a Cambodia-focused X post claiming bias in Korean ventures, Lee countered: “Koreans never shun job-seeking Cambodians or locals.” Korea drives half of Cambodia’s foreign direct investment, he highlighted.
Embassy-Led Efforts in Key Case
On the Korean embassy’s handling of the “Righteous Army Scam” in the Philippines, Lee noted Manila’s growing sway. “Large powers must deploy targeted influence too—sustained strategies ensure breakthroughs,” he concluded.
