Daegu prosecutors have named a new investigation director to oversee the case against Choi, a 51-year-old suspect accused of operating a marijuana production facility in Taiwan to supply Park Wang-yeol, a notorious figure known as the “marijuana king.”
Case Background
The Eastern District Prosecutors’ Office plans to seek an arrest warrant on the 2nd for this Taiwan-based operation, marking a significant escalation. Choi allegedly smuggled 22 kilograms of marijuana from the Philippines in 2019, valued at over 100 million won, and continues to face lawsuits related to drug distribution.
Recent Raids and Confirmations
Investigators raided Choi’s residence in Jinan last March, confirming his central role in Park Wang-yeol’s marijuana supply chain. Authorities also uncovered links to other drug smuggling activities, including sales through job placement agencies and related enterprises.
Taiwanese officials confirm Choi entered the country and have detained him since January 10th following a raid on a Gongjo office by another executive. Subsequent joint operations across Taiwan police stations involved Choi as a key participant.
Ongoing Investigation
Repatriated suspects from prior probes remain under scrutiny. Seized evidence, including executive statements, large cash sums, and operational details, reveals the full scope of capital flows, distribution routes, and criminal scale tied to Park and Choi.
Prosecutors are also examining related businesses using alias names and calculating damages from Taiwan-based marijuana production sites. Plans include pursuing additional sales channels and public office connections to dismantle the network.
