Choi Minhee Responds to 'Daughter's Wedding Hall Allegations': "Entire Reservation and Use Process Was Lawful"

"This is actually a good thing... No privileges, nothing to hide"

Choi Minhee, Chairperson of the National Assembly Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting Communications Committee. Photo by Yonhap News

As the police have launched a compulsory investigation into allegations that the child of Choi Minhee, Chairperson of the National Assembly Science, Technology, Information and Broadcasting Communications Committee and a member of the Democratic Party, made a proxy reservation for the National Assembly wedding hall, Choi has responded head-on, saying, "This is actually a good thing."

On January 23, Choi released a statement emphasizing, "I will take this opportunity to clearly and thoroughly confirm the facts regarding who, when, and through what procedures the Sarangjae was reserved, and set the record straight."

She explained, "My daughter made the reservation and used the venue herself, qualifying as a 'direct descendant of a National Assembly member.' The use of the National Assembly wedding hall is permitted for the children of both current and former National Assembly members according to the facility's operating regulations, and the application and approval were carried out in accordance with those regulations through proper procedures." She stated that there were no privileges or exceptions involved.

Choi also provided specific details about the reservation process. She said, "In August 2024, following the guidance of the National Assembly Secretariat, my daughter created an ID in my name and registered on the reservation website. In May 2025, she directly applied for Sarangjae and secured the reservation on a first-come, first-served basis."

Basic information screen for Sarangjae reservation application disclosed by Minhee Choi. Photo by Minhee Choi's office.

Additionally, by releasing the basic information screen from the reservation application, Choi stated, "Although the member information lists my name, the contact number is my daughter's, not mine. The reservation applicant and the bride's contact information are identical, which demonstrates that my daughter handled the entire reservation process herself." She added, "This is likely the same information the police have secured."

Regarding the investigation, Choi said, "Whether it is a search and seizure or a request for documents, I am willing to comply with anything necessary. Check everything as it is. I have nothing to hide and no intention of avoiding this." She continued, "Anyone who continues to raise baseless suspicions and amplify them after the facts are confirmed must bear the corresponding responsibility."