South Korea to decide on justice, gender minister nominees after hearings

Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won has been accused of illegally lobbying the food and drug safety ministry in 2021 to secure approval for a COVID-19 treatment. Seong noted that Kim had previously undergone a prosecution investigation that resulted in a non-indictment decision, suggesting the presidential office was aware of the issue during its vetting process.

Gender Equality Minister nominee Yong Hye-in has faced criticism for her refusal to relinquish her proportional representation seat in the National Assembly upon her ministerial appointment. Seong indicated that Yong would address this matter during her confirmation hearing.

Additionally, Seong reiterated the government's stance on the reported U.S. request for South Korea to deploy troops to the Strait of Hormuz, stating that no final decision has been reached. He mentioned that various options for contributing to the normalization of the Strait are being considered, including technical assistance in addition to potential troop deployment.