A local media outlet reported earlier that part of the allegedly misused money included budgetary funds that had been set aside for President Moon Jae-in's visit to the European country in 2017. But this case is not related to such funds, an informed source said.

The official has been removed from his post.

The ministry said it will take stern measures if the suspicions are confirmed.

It is the latest in a string of misconduct and irregularities by officials at foreign missions.

Two former ambassadors, to Vietnam and Malaysia, have been fired for accepting gifts in violation of anti-graft law and mistreatment of subordinates, while the ambassador to Mongolia has been referred to the central government's disciplinary committee over alleged ties with a visa broker. (Yonhap)