South Korea Police Raid Bithumb in Lawmaker Hiring Probe

South Korean police raided Bithumb as investigators probe alleged nepotism involving independent lawmaker Kim Byung-gi. Kim is accused of trying to influence hiring for his son at several crypto firms, including Bithumb and Dunamu, the operator of rival exchange Upbit.

His son joined Bithumb in January 2025 and worked there for about six months, and authorities are examining whether external pressure or preferential treatment affected the hiring. The investigation has expanded as police continue to probe whether any criminal conduct occurred tied to the alleged misuse of Kim’s political position.

Officials have questioned Kim several times. The inquiry intensified after reports that, while serving on the National Assembly’s Political Affairs Committee overseeing the finance regulator, he repeatedly directed questions at Dunamu during proceedings when his son was employed there.

South Korea

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