Seoul to investigate sex claims against late mayor

Local authorities in the South Korean capital Seoul said Wednesday they will launch an investigation into allegations of sexual misconduct surrounding late mayor Park Won-soon, who was found dead last week after one of his secretaries filed an abuse claim.

City spokesman Hwang In-sik said the investigation committee will also include civic activists and experts, but didn't specify when it would start or how much power it would have.

Rescue workers found Park's body in a wooded area in northern Seoul early Friday, following a massive search.

On Monday, lawyer Kim Jae-ryon told reporters that she gave legal counsel to one of Park's former secretaries before a complaint was lodged with police on July 8 alleging sexual harassment.

According to Kim, the ex-secretary said Park subjected her to unwanted sexual advances and physical contact for years, and sent her "lewd" photos and text messages.

The allegations have tarnished the reputation of Park, a liberal who built his career as a reform-minded politician and a champion of women's rights.

He was considered a potential presidential candidate for the elections in 2022.