SEOUL — Samsung Group leader Jay Y. Lee appeared at the South Korean special prosecutor’s office for questioning on Monday<br />as part of a wider investigation into an influence-peddling scandal that could topple President Park Geun-hye.<br />The special prosecutor has focused on South Korea’s biggest conglomerate, accusing Lee in his capacity as Samsung chief of pledging 43 billion won ($37.31 million) to a business<br />and organizations backed by Park’s friend, Choi Soon-sil, in exchange for support for a 2015 merger of two Samsung companies.<br />Proving illicit dealings between Park or her confidantes<br />and Samsung Group is critical for the special prosecutor’s case that ultimately targets Park, analysts have said.<br />Lee arrived at the prosecution office in southern Seoul early on Monday in a black sedan, dressed in a dark blue suit<br />and tie and flanked by Samsung Group officials and his lawyer.<br />Park was impeached by parliament in December and South Korea’s Constitutional Court will decide whether to uphold that decision.<br />"I will once again tell the truth to the special prosecution," Samsung Group’s third-generation leader told reporters before entering an elevator.
