The case is linked to a scandal that led to the impeachment of President Park Geung-hye.
Samsung is accused of giving donations to non-profit foundations operated by Choi Soon-sil, a friend of Ms Park, in exchange for government favours.
Mr Lee and the Samsung Group deny any wrongdoing.
The acting Samsung chief was first questioning by prosecutors in January
But he was earlier this week.
On Friday, the court said it "acknowledged that it is necessary to arrest [Lee Jae-Yong] in light of a newly added criminal charge and new evidence."
The prosecution will now investigate further have 20 days to file formal charges. The arrest does not reflect a court opinion on guilt or innocence but only means it considers the potential crime very serious or that it assumes a flight risk.
Post a Comment