South Korean President's close friend 'barricaded' in cell

Choi Soon-sil, a close friend of South Korean President Park Geun-hye, refused to leave her cell on December 26 to face lawmakers during a special hearing held at the detention facility.

Ms. Choi Soon-sil (center) in court on December 19.

According to AFP news agency, Ms. Choi Soon-sil, the central figure in the corruption scandal that led to the suspension of President Park Geun-hye from office a few weeks ago, has repeatedly refused to appear before an investigation committee of the South Korean National Assembly. Ms. Choi's "defiant" behavior forced lawmakers to go to the prison to meet her.

The hearing was set to be filmed at a detention facility outside Seoul, but lawmakers were at a loss as Ms Choi refused to leave her cell.

Two former senior aides to Ms. Park also refused to appear before the legislative assembly.

“It is regrettable that these people disregard the rights of the people and the National Assembly by refusing to participate in the hearing,” said Kim Sung-tae, chairman of the investigation committee.

There is no law requiring witnesses to participate in congressional hearings, although they can be arrested and face up to five years in prison for refusing to cooperate.

According to Thanh Nien