Kim Minseok: "Centrist Conservatism Is Sincere... Yoon Administration Brought About Its Own Downfall"

"Discussed with President Lee the Need to Move Toward a Social Pact State"
"High-Ranking Officials Who Failed to Act Clearly During the Rebellion Must Leave a Lesson for History"

Kim Minseok, the nominee for Prime Minister, asserted on the 24th that President Lee Jaemyung's declaration of centrist conservatism during the presidential election was not a one-off election tactic.

Kim Minseok, the nominee for Prime Minister, is responding to lawmakers' questions at the confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, on the 24th. Photo by Yonhap News

At the National Assembly confirmation hearing that day, Kim stated, "I told President Lee Jaemyung that his statement about being a centrist conservative should not be just a one-time election tactic, but something to be taken seriously," adding, "President Lee himself said that he genuinely believes this."

He went on to add, "Politicians from conservative backgrounds are trying to find space to play a role, and I plan to make greater efforts to meet with opposition lawmakers and leadership."

Regarding the direction of the new administration, he said, "President Lee and I have often discussed for a long time that we should move toward becoming a social pact state," and added, "Resolving conflicts in a democratic manner and addressing issues through agreements among various sectors of society is the approach that fits the current times."

In this context, Kim cited an example, saying, "One of the biggest mistakes of the Yoon Sukyeol administration was causing distress for everyone over the issue of medical students, based on the inexplicable figure of 2,000 people."

When Democratic Party lawmaker Chae Hyunil asked, "What do you think is the main reason the Yoon Sukyeol government collapsed before completing its five-year term?" Kim replied, "I think it was because they did things that led to their own downfall."

Regarding the relationship between the party and the administration, he said, "In general, I will do my best to enhance the sense of unity in state affairs with the mindset that the party and the administration are one," and added, "Considering my experience and the president's style, regular meetings might have meaning, but it would be more meaningful to discuss current issues more frequently as they arise."

On the issue of 'ending the rebellion,' he said, "At the very least, those who held high-ranking positions at the time and failed to act clearly should leave a lesson for history," but added, "When it comes to lower-ranking officials, there may be a need for restraint regarding excessive investigations in order to revitalize the public sector."

He continued, "As for audits and other actions concerning public officials, I will consider whether measures are necessary, taking into account the possibility of a special prosecutor or further investigations related to the rebellion."

Regarding prosecution reform, Kim said, "I understand there is broad consensus on the major direction of separating investigation and indictment, and I agree with it," adding, "Since the issues involve both systems and individuals, those who need to be punished should be punished, but fundamentally, we must proceed by improving the system."

He further explained, "At this point, I do not intend to characterize what has come to light as 'resistance by the entire prosecution.' However, if they feel their authority is being weakened, it is possible that they may not welcome it."