Kim Byung-kee, a senior South Korean lawmaker, is confronting allegations of a conflict of interest involving cryptocurrency exchanges. A report suggests he targeted one firm after a family member joined a competing platform.
The allegations state that during his son’s pursuit of a role at Bithumb, Kim raised issues in the National Assembly about Upbit, operated by Dunamu. Kim serves on the Political Affairs Committee.
The report specifies that Kim urged staff to scrutinize Dunamu following news of Naver’s planned acquisition of the company. The high-value deal would need approval from regulators.
These actions have prompted questions about the appropriateness of his conduct given his oversight role. Kim has rejected the allegations, expressing regret over the linking of his son’s job to his legislative work.
