People Power Party Calls for Kim Min-seok's Nomination Withdrawal

On June 28, the People Power Party (국민의힘) called for the withdrawal of Kim Min-seok's nomination as Prime Minister. Party spokesperson Ham In-kyung criticized the confirmation hearing process, stating that there were no satisfactory explanations provided to the public. He noted that the hearing was conducted without any witnesses or references, leading to a lack of transparency and the failure to submit promised documents.

Ham further pointed out that Kim failed to provide clear answers regarding suspicious financial flows related to living expenses and study abroad costs, instead leaving only vague references to 'cabbage.' He highlighted that Kim inaccurately reported the national debt ratio as 20-30%, while it is nearly 50%, and could not adequately address the current national budget size. Ham questioned Kim's qualifications to address the ongoing economic crisis, given his lack of personal financial experience and ignorance of critical fiscal matters.

Additionally, Ham expressed shock at reports suggesting that President Lee Jae-myung responded dismissively to concerns raised by the opposition, implying that the administration was attempting to downplay the opposition's worries despite a 50% approval rating. He strongly demanded the withdrawal of Kim's nomination, asserting that failing to do so would undermine the moral and practical integrity of the Lee administration.

People Power Party member Kim Gi-hyeon took to Facebook to describe the situation as an unprecedented 'witness-less hearing' and criticized the Democratic Party for planning to force the approval of Kim's nomination. He labeled Kim as a candidate lacking both morality and capability, urging him to resign immediately to avoid further disgrace.

The Democratic Party has stated that if the People Power Party does not agree to Kim's confirmation by the deadline of June 29, they will convene a National Assembly session on June 30 to process Kim's nomination directly.