Spokesperson Kim Namjoon: "We Are Seeking a Risk-Free Path for Prosecutorial Reform... No Need to Doubt President Lee's Commitment"

On the Controversy Surrounding Lee Hyehoon, Nominee for Minister of Planning and Budget,
"Let the People Decide"

Kim Namjoon, spokesperson for the Presidential Office, commented on the internal backlash within the ruling party regarding the government’s bill to establish the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, stating that the process is about finding a way with no risks.

Yonhap News Agency

Appearing on MBC Radio’s “Focus,” Kim said, “We are trying to incorporate many opinions through thorough deliberation,” and added, “President Lee Jaemyung has endured all kinds of oppression and harm so far, so there is no need to doubt his commitment to prosecutorial reform.”

He also indicated that the government is not insisting on its original proposal. Referring to President Lee’s recent instruction that “the party should engage in sufficient discussion and deliberation, and the government should gather opinions,” Kim explained, “This means that necessary parts can be revised.”

Regarding the special prosecutor’s demand for the death penalty for former President Yoon Sukyeol, Kim stated that President Lee had not made any comments on the matter. On the various allegations and controversies surrounding Lee Hyehoon, the nominee for Minister of Planning and Budget, Kim reaffirmed the position that “the nominee should explain herself to the public and allow the people to make their own judgment,” and that he would closely observe the confirmation hearing. In response to criticism from Lee Seokyeon, Chairman of the National Integration Committee, who argued that the nomination of Lee Hyehoon does not represent “integration,” Kim replied, “There has been no change in the administration’s commitment to governing for the sake of integration.”

Regarding the Korea-Japan summit held over two days from January 13 to 14, Kim said he felt that strong trust had been established between the two leaders. He noted, “Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi bid farewell three times after the friendship event, which made me feel that she was truly sincere.” On the sensitive issue of Korea’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Kim assessed that “there was clear progress” and confirmed that Japan’s position was to “give it full consideration.”