A South Korean lawmaker is calling for the withdrawal of Kim Seung-won’s nomination as justice minister, arguing the former prosecutor is unfit for a confirmation hearing. The demand was reported by 경향신문 on Friday.
According to the report, lawmaker Jeong Jeom-sik of the People Power Party said Kim should not be allowed to undergo the parliamentary confirmation process. Jeong’s objection centers on Kim’s past record, which includes a suspended indictment—a legal status that means charges were filed but prosecution was halted under conditions.
Jeong described the situation as a conflict of interest, noting that Kim would, if confirmed, oversee the very prosecutorial system that once placed him under indictment suspension. The lawmaker called the nomination “nonsensical” and urged the presidential office to withdraw it, according to KBS News.
The criticism is part of a broader offensive by the People Power Party against multiple nominees in the latest cabinet reshuffle. Reports from v.daum.net indicate the party is simultaneously targeting Kim and another nominee, Yong Hye-in, in what it frames as a dual push to block their appointments. The party has accused both of lacking the integrity required for high office.
The confirmation process for Kim and other nominees, including deputy prime minister nominee Lee Hyeong-il, is expected to continue in the coming days. Whether the presidential office responds to the withdrawal demand remains to be seen.
