S. Korea’s ‘female Rasputin’ denies receiving benefits or privileges

Seoul, Jan 16 (IANS) Choi Soon-sil, dubbed the South Korean Rasputin and the main accused in a massive corruption scandal, denied during the President's impeachment hearing on Monday the charges against her that include abuse of power, extortion and attempted fraud.

"I have never gained any benefits or privileges. I think it is a jump of logic," said 60-year-old Choi, a close friend of President Park Geun-hye.

Choi, who has been in prison since November, had earlier defended herself similarly before the South Korean parliament as well as the criminal court investigating the case, Efe news reported.

Monday's hearing was the fifth session of Park's impeachment trial, after the National Assembly on December 9 passed a motion to impeach the President on suspicions that she cooperated with Choi to extort large business groups.

Investigators say Choi, aided by Park, extorted major conglomerates to transfer around 77 billion won (about $65 million) to two foundations that she controlled.

In the court, Choi complained about the prosecution's investigation methods and at times raised her voice to respond to what she said were "loaded questions".

Choi also defended Park's innocence, but admitted to having visited her occasionally, helping her with personal matters, and of accessing and editing confidential material, including drafts of her speeches.

The South Korean Constitutional Court has until early June to ratify or reject the impeachment of Park approved by parliament.

If the impeachment is approved, presidential elections will be held within 60 days from the date of the verdict.