(EDITORIAL from Korea Herald on Sept. 3)

Rep. Yong Hye-in, the nominee for minister of gender equality and family, has faced criticism for her decision to seek both a position in the National Assembly and a Cabinet role. The minor Basic Income Party, which has only one seat in the National Assembly, would lose its parliamentary status if she resigns, as it receives subsidies based on its parliamentary representation.

However, some suggest the real reason may be financial, as the party and Yong's family would lose funding if she relinquishes her seat. Yong also faces allegations of property speculation, having reportedly made a 20 million won profit from selling her home in Ansan, Gyeonggi Province, just a year after purchasing it. Despite facing opposition from both ruling and opposition parties, Yong maintains her stance, arguing that she must retain her parliamentary seat to ensure her party's survival.

Civic groups, progressive women's organizations, and even another progressive party have criticized her decision, questioning whether a politician who has served as a lawmaker twice should be granted a Cabinet position.