Rival parties clash as confirmation hearings begin for Cabinet nominees
The National Assembly began confirmation hearings for three Cabinet posts Tuesday, with rival parties locking horns over illegal lobbying allegations involving the justice minister nominee. At the center of attention is the hearing for Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won, who has come under fire over allegations that he illegally lobbied the food and drug safety ministry in 2021 to help win…
The National Assembly commenced confirmation hearings for three Cabinet positions on Tuesday, as rival parties clashed over allegations of illegal lobbying linked to the nominee for Justice Minister. The primary focus of scrutiny is Kim Seung-won, the individual set to assume the role of Justice Minister. Kim has faced criticism due to accusations that he engaged in unlawful lobbying of the food and drug safety ministry in 2021, in an effort to facilitate the approval process for a COVID-19 treatment.
Kim expressed regret for any distress caused by the allegations during the hearing. He pledged to provide comprehensive answers to each lawmaker's inquiries and furnish detailed explanations regarding any claims that are deemed inconsistent with the facts.
The hearing faced an immediate contentious start, even before detailed questioning commenced, as rival parties engaged in heated exchanges regarding allegations surrounding a social cooperative that Kim's wife is involved with. Critics from the main opposition People Power Party (PPP) have questioned Kim's suitability for the Justice Minister position, citing concerns over his association with a group of ruling party lawmakers involved in the cooperative controversy.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
