SEOUL, Sept. 15 (Yonhap) -- The National Assembly commenced confirmation hearings for three Cabinet posts on Tuesday, marked by sharp exchanges between rival political parties, particularly concerning allegations of illegal lobbying against the nominee for justice minister. Kim Seung-won, the justice minister nominee, is at the center of attention due to accusations that he illegally lobbied the food and drug safety ministry in 2021 to expedite the approval of a COVID-19 treatment. Kim addressed the concerns, stating, "I apologize for causing concerns to the public over allegations surrounding myself. I will faithfully answer each lawmaker's questions today and explain in detail any claims that are inconsistent with the facts."
The hearing began with inter-party disputes even before questioning commenced, focusing on allegations related to a social cooperative for individuals with developmental disabilities where Kim's wife is employed. Lawmakers from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) have raised questions about Kim's suitability for the justice minister position, also citing his participation in a group of ruling party lawmakers advocating for the dismissal of criminal indictments against President Lee Jae Myung.
In response, the ruling Democratic Party accused independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon of leaking confidential investigative materials in what they described as a politically motivated attack. The Democratic Party questioned the source of Han's information, which included phone conversation transcripts and recordings between Kim and a broker, which Han presented as evidence of Kim's undue influence on the food and drug safety ministry. Confirmation hearings were also held for Finance Minister nominee Lee Hyoung-il and Minister for Small and Medium-sized Enterprises nominee Lee So-young, who are each facing separate controversies related to real estate issues. While parliamentary confirmation hearings are required for Cabinet nominees, their appointments do not necessitate parliamentary approval.
