Arirang TV chief to step down

The president of state-run English language broadcaster Arirang TV has offered to resign, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism said Tuesday.

According to the ministry, Arirang TV chief Bang Suk-ho offered his resignation to Park Min-gwon, the first vice minister of culture, the night before.

Bang is embroiled in a scandal over alleged misuse of public funds during his business trip to the United States last September.

Rep. Choi Min-hee of the main opposition The Minjoo Party of Korea claimed in a press statement Monday that Bang fabricated the documents to file his personal expenses -- shopping and dining with his family -- under business meetings. Arirang TV denied the claims on Bang’s behalf.

The Culture Ministry has commenced a special investigation into the scandal, which officials said will continue regardless of Bang’s resignation.

By Yoon Min-sik (minsikyoon@heraldcorp.com)