S. Korean president says to accept investigation over scandal if necessary

People take part in a rally denouncing President Park Geun-hye over a political scandal in central Seoul, South Korea, November 3, 2016. The placard reads "Call for Park Geun-hye to step down". [Photo/Agencies]

SEOUL - South Korean President Park Geun-hye said Friday that she will accept an investigation into herself, if necessary, by prosecutors over a scandal surrounding Choi Soon-sil, the president's longtime confidante suspected of intervening into state affairs.

Park addressed the nation over the political scandal that sparked calls for her resignation, expressing her sincere apology once again after making her public apology last week.

The embattled president said she will also accept a probe by an independent counsel into the case involving her close friend accused of peddling undue influence and meddling in government decision behind the scenes.

If realized, Park would become the first South Korean president who is investigated by prosecutors.