The independent counsel team sought a 30-day extension Friday to its investigation into the North Korea payoff scandal, which has already led to the arrest of three top-level figures from the previous administration.

Cheong Wa Dae said Thursday it will be "very cautious" and "prudent" in deciding whether to accept the request.

Former President Kim Dae-jung's administration is alleged to have paid North Korea to participate in the June 2000 inter-Korean summit, making illegal remittances through Hyundai Group affiliates in charge of Seoul's centerpiece economic cooperation projects with the North.

High-ranking officials from Kim's government have been arrested, including then presidential economic affairs advisor Lee Ki-ho, former chief regulator Lee Keun-young and ex-chief of staff Park Jie-won.

Meanwhile, the ruling Millenium Democratic Party called for the passage of the independent counsel bill, while voicing opposition to the extension of the investigation, arguing that the extension might harm current inter-Korean relations.