Police have requested an arrest warrant for former Cheongju City Councilor Choi Yeong-jung, who is facing charges including the prostitution of a minor.

The Cheongju Cheongwon Police Station summoned the former councilor on the 26th for an all-night interrogation lasting nearly 15 hours until 5:00 a.m. yesterday, and subsequently requested an arrest warrant citing concerns over the destruction of evidence and flight.

Former Councilor Choi is suspected of child prostitution and the production of sexually explicit material involving a middle school girl he met through a chat app starting in October 2024.

Police reportedly questioned him about potential additional crimes based on forensic data extracted from three cell phones and a PC seized during a search and seizure operation on the 15th.

Previously, police had requested an arrest warrant once while searching his office and residence, but voluntarily withdrew it citing concerns over personal safety.

Former Councilor Choi has denied most of the allegations, claiming, "I didn't know she was a minor."

(Photo: Yonhap News)