Kim Bu-gyeom, who referred to them as "victim complainants," repeatedly apologizes to Park Won-soon's victims

Prime Minister nominee Kim Boo-kyum is taking the oath at the confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly on the 6th.
[Photo by Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Soyoung] Prime Minister nominee Kim Boo-kyum apologized for referring to the late former Seoul Mayor Park Won-soon's sexual violence victim as a "complainant claiming to be a victim," saying, "I deeply accept the criticism that I lacked gender sensitivity."

At the confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly on the 6th, in response to People Power Party lawmaker Jo Su-jin's question, "Is it difficult to call the victim a victim?" Kim bowed his head and said, "I have apologized several times, but I apologize once again to the victim."

He continued, "At that time, even our party was unable to take a clear stance on Mayor Park Won-soon's sudden death," and explained, "Until around that time, the details regarding Mayor Park's death had not yet been revealed."

Earlier, in response to People Power Party lawmaker Lee Yang-su's question, "Are you willing to apologize to the victim?" Kim stated in writing, "I offer my sincere condolences to the victim." He added, "I apologize for not fully considering the victim's position," and said, "It is appropriate to refer to them as a victim."

Kim also added, "If I am appointed as Prime Minister, I will strive to ensure the smooth implementation of last year's government measures to strengthen the response system to eradicate sexual harassment and sexual violence in the public sector."

Additionally, he apologized one after another for allegations related to himself, including past tax delinquencies, school violence, and commemorative photos at disaster sites.

Earlier, the People Power Party criticized, calling it "the finishing touch of this 'hypocrisy exhibition' cabinet reshuffle." Bae Jun-young, spokesperson for the People Power Party, issued a statement that day, saying, "Kim Boo-kyum is not qualified to be Prime Minister," and pointed out, "The most important thing is the ethical awareness and law-abiding spirit that should serve as a model for all public officials. There are serious flaws throughout Prime Minister nominee Kim Boo-kyum."