Prime Minister Nominee Kim Min-seok Praises President Lee Jae-myung's G7 Debut

On June 19, Prime Minister nominee Kim Min-seok attended a meeting focused on job opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities at the Dream Together Social Cooperative in Yeongdeungpo, Seoul. He commented on President Lee Jae-myung's recent debut on the international stage at the G7 summit, stating that the leaders who met the new president of South Korea experienced a warmth that melted away barriers, describing it as a reflection of 'K-Democracy'.

In a Facebook post, Kim expressed that President Lee's efforts to engage with global leaders, including a meeting with former U.S. President Donald Trump under challenging circumstances, exceeded expectations. He noted that Trump's abrupt departure without a meeting with Lee likely left him disappointed.

Kim highlighted that President Lee's diplomatic skills, honed through consistent interactions with ambassadors from various countries, were evident during his first international diplomatic engagement. He also remarked that Lee's natural charisma and dramatic life experiences serve as valuable assets in diplomacy.

Emphasizing the importance of national strength, Kim stated, 'The greatest support for the new president of a developed democratic nation like South Korea on the international stage comes from the people. Both South Korea and its president will grow stronger. It is time to restore the national strength that was scarred by internal strife.'

As he navigates his role as a prime ministerial nominee, Kim clarified that he is not acting as a prime minister but is driven by a sense of responsibility to fill the leadership void in the new government following the recent turmoil.

In response to criticisms regarding his master's degree from Tsinghua University, Kim defended his academic credentials, stating that he managed to complete a three-year doctoral program at a U.S. law school while simultaneously pursuing a one-year master's degree in China, fulfilling all academic requirements.

He shared that he balanced his commitments by alternating attendance at weekly meetings and commuting to China for his studies, promising to release records of his travel soon.

Addressing the opposition's scrutiny of his background, Kim acknowledged their enthusiasm for verification but expressed hope for balanced and rational discussions regarding policies and visions. He also mentioned feeling overwhelmed by the unexpected wave of support he has received recently.