Seoul: South Korean Olympic chief Lee Kee-heung faces an uncertain future following his suspension by the sports ministry due to alleged misconduct, as he seeks a third term at the helm of the Korean Sport and Olympic Committee (KSOC). The suspension was announced by the sports ministry late Monday, following an ethics inspection report from the Office for Government Policy Coordination, which plans to request a police investigation into Lee and other officials for alleged improper conduct, including illicit hiring practices and misappropriation of funds. According to Yonhap News Agency, Lee, who initially took the top KSOC position in September 2016, is now facing significant hurdles in his bid for a third term. The KSOC statutes allow a president to run for a second term without restrictions, but a third-term bid requires approval from the KSOC's Commission for Fair Play in Sport. The subcommission is set to deliver its verdict on Lee's candidacy on Tuesday afternoon, following a preliminary review earlier this month. The timing of Lee's suspension adds complexity to his reelection campaign, with the KSOC presidential election scheduled for January 14, 2025. The subcommission will assess Lee's candidacy based on a 100-point scale, evaluating criteria such as his financial contributions to the KSOC, operational integrity, and adherence to ethical standards. A ministry official emphasized that the suspension is separate from the KSOC election, asserting that the ministry acted in accordance with laws enabling disciplinary actions against heads of public institutions. "If we hadn't suspended him, then we'd be aiding and abetting his illegal conduct," the official stated, referencing precedents where similar suspensions were enacted. Despite the suspension, Lee could still be eligible to run for president next year if the KSOC's subcommission approves his bid. The ministry maintains that the suspension will not impact the election process. Lee's status as KSOC president is crucial for his International Olympic Committee (IOC) membership, which he obtained in 2019. However, his IOC term is set to expire next year, as he reaches the age limit of 70 in January 2025. An extension of up to four years can be granted by the IOC Executive Board, typically reserved for those with notable contributions to the Olympic Movement.