“I feel sorry and miserable that a specific individual derived benefits in the process of key state projects, the purpose of which was to improve the nation’s economy and the people’s lives,” Park said in an address broadcast live to the nation.

The address, delivered 10 days after her previous acknowledgement of Choi’s suspected interference in presidential speeches, came amid burgeoning criticism against her recent personnel decision regarding the Cabinet and presidential secretariat.

“I have ordered the presidential secretariat and security team to fully cooperate in the prosecutorial investigation,” the president said.

“I, too, am ready to accede to the probe if necessary.”

Though the president refrained from further comments, citing the ongoing prosecutorial probe, she did once again refute rampant rumors her connection to Choi was based on a shamanist cult background.

Park’s consent followed remarks made by key officials the previous day that the president, too, could become subject to a prosecutorial probe over her alleged involvement in the state scandal.

“There are many questions regarding an investigation into the president. My answer is that all people, including the president, are equal before the law,” said Prime Minister-nominee Kim Byong-joon.

Justice Minister Kim Hyun-woong also said he would propose the president respond to a prosecutorial investigation.

By Bae Hyun-jung (tellme@heraldcorp.com)