Former Black Pearl Investment CEO Recalled for Investigation in Stock Manipulation Case

Lee Jong-ho (이종호), the former CEO of Black Pearl Investment, appeared for questioning by the Special Prosecutor's team led by Min Jung-ki (민중기) on July 30, 2025. This marks his third session of investigation following previous appearances on July 21 and 23.

Lee arrived at the KT West building in Gwanghwamun, Seoul, at 10 AM for his third round of questioning. When approached by reporters, he declined to answer questions regarding whether he had made requests to Kim Geon-hee (김건희) or if he acknowledged his involvement in the stock manipulation of Samboo Construction (삼부토건).

Unlike his previous two sessions where he attended without legal representation, Lee was accompanied by a lawyer this time.

The Special Prosecutor's team suspects that Lee received a total of 83.9 million won in bribes from Lee Jeong-pil (이정필), a key accomplice in the Deutsche Motors (도이치모터스) stock manipulation case, in exchange for requests to reduce sentencing and to influence police investigations. Additionally, he is accused of participating in stock manipulation related to Samboo Construction, including sending messages in a group chat with former Marines, stating, 'Check Samboo tomorrow.'

In a related development, the Special Prosecutor's team also summoned former President Yoon Seok-yeol (윤석열) for questioning, but he did not respond as he is currently incarcerated at the Seoul Detention Center. His legal team has cited health issues as the reason for his absence, but the Special Prosecutor's team does not consider this a valid excuse, indicating that they may pursue compulsory measures for his testimony.