Governor Park Wansu Denies Ever Speaking with First Lady Kim Keonhee ... Dismisses Allegations and Vows Steadfast Provincial Leadership

"I have never spoken with Kim Keonhee."

Park Wansu, Governor of Gyeongnam Province, has once again denied reports alleging that First Lady Kim Keonhee contacted him and his wife regarding the nomination of former prosecutor Kim Sangmin, amid suspicions of Kim Keonhee's involvement in the election.

At a press conference held on September 1, Governor Park was asked about the issue and expressed his regret, saying, "I have stated my official position multiple times, so I do not understand why reports that are not true continue to be published."

Park Wansu, Governor of Gyeongnam Province, is answering questions at a press conference. Photo by Lee Seryoung

He reiterated, "Once again, neither I nor any member of my family has ever spoken with the First Lady, and I was not involved in last year’s National Assembly election."

He emphasized, "I am someone who tells everyone around me to remain neutral," adding, "Once again, I want to make it clear that I have never been involved in any election."

Regarding rumors of being summoned by the special prosecutor, he said, "The special prosecutor has never contacted me," and dismissed the reports, stating, "There are media reports about me being summoned, but they are completely baseless."

He explained, "The reason my name keeps coming up in connection with the Uichang District election interference allegations is because I previously served as a National Assembly member for Uichang District."

He also said, "Even when former President Yoon Sukyeol asked me to take on a role in his campaign when he was a candidate, I did not join," adding, "I have rarely had any personal meetings or phone calls."

Governor Park reiterated, "Since the prosecution’s investigation is underway, we should wait for the results," and added, "Throughout my career in public office, I have never done anything inappropriate or anything that would warrant criticism."

He continued, "I believe that as elections approach, various political incidents can occur," but stressed, "However, I will never be swayed and will continue to serve Gyeongnam Province and its residents."

He added, "Just as I have devoted myself with passion to Gyeongnam Province and its residents so far, I will continue to do my best for the remainder of the 8th popularly elected term, which has less than a year left."