South Korea's top communications regulator resigned on Friday amid allegations that his former aide took a bribe from a businessman in return for favors.

Korea Communications Commission (KCC) Chairman Choi See-joong has been under pressure to step down since suspicions arose that his aide, Jeong Yong-wook, received money from an operator of a local education institution.

"I hope that my departure will help the watchdog stave off prejudice and misunderstanding held by the public," the 75-year-old Choi said at a briefing.

Choi, considered as a key aide to President Lee Myung-bak, has headed the state-run KCC, which handles the nation's broadcasting and telecommunications policies, since Lee took office in early 2008.

The 48-year-old aide, who now lives overseas, is under suspicion of receiving nearly 200 million won (US$178,200) from Kim Hak-in, chairman of a college-level vocational school focused on broadcasting careers.

Last week, prosecutors arrested and indicted Kim on charges of embezzlement and tax evasion, but they have not yet pressed charges against Jeong, who worked for Choi from 2008-2011.

"Words are scary as they make rumors sound more plausible than truth," Choi said, citing the prosecution's latest investigation results. "I feel terrible as (the rumors) have dealt a serious blow to KCC's pride as a whole."

Friday's announcement also came as fresh allegations surfaced earlier this week that Jeong offered money to some lawmakers belonging to the parliamentary committee on culture, sports, tourism and broadcasting after a controversial media bill was passed into law in July 2009.

The revised law eliminated ownership restrictions in the media industry, allowing the cross-ownership of newspapers and broadcasting stations for the first time in nearly three decades.

Under the eased regulations, four cable television channels and one news channel launched last month, changing the nation's media landscape.

Political parties showed mixed responses over the political heavyweight's resignation.

Rep. Hwang Young-chul, spokesman for the ruling Grand National Party (GNP), said Choi's decision was timely and urged the government to thoroughly investigate the alleged bribery to clear up suspicions.

Rep. Kim Jin-pyo, floor leader of the main opposition Democratic United Party, said Choi's resignation is a "belated decision" considering his controversial media policies.

Senior presidential press secretary Choe Guem-nak said Choi offered his resignation on Wednesday. At first, President Lee tried to persuade him to stay put, but decided to accept the offer as Choi was so insistent, the secretary said.

Choi's successor will be chosen as soon as possible, he said.

(Yonhap News)