Kim Seungwon: "Will Inspect for Political Use of Prosecution Cabinet Leaks" ... Targeting Han Donghoon

Kim Seungwon's Confirmation Hearing for Minister of Justice Nominee

"Prompt Sorting of Inappropriate Materials"

Heated Debate with Joo Jinwoo over Alleged Family Privileges at Cooperative

"Try Having Your Son Work Here... You'll See How Tough It Is"

Kim Seungwon, nominee for Minister of Justice, stated on September 15 that he would launch an inspection to determine whether investigation materials stored by the prosecution have been leaked externally and politically exploited. His remarks were effectively directed at independent lawmaker Han Donghoon, who has been releasing investigation documents while raising allegations that Kim lobbied for approval of clinical trials for new drugs.

On the 15th, Kim Seungwon, nominee for Minister of Justice, appeared at the 'Legislation and Judiciary Committee, Hearing for Minister of Justice Nominee' held at the National Assembly in Yeouido, Seoul, answering questions from assembly members. 2026.9.15. Photo by Kang Jinhyung

At the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee confirmation hearing that day, when Park Jiwon, a member of the Democratic Party of Korea, pointed out the problem of Assemblyman Han's disclosure of investigation materials, Kim said, "I will thoroughly review the materials that are in, or should not be in, the prosecution's cabinet and ensure they are promptly sorted out and processed."

He continued, "I will also ensure that we inspect whether there is anyone using materials from the prosecution's cabinet for political purposes or for personal legal business reasons." When Assemblyman Park cited the so-called "fruit of the poisonous tree" doctrine and called for a thorough inspection and punishment of those responsible, Kim responded, "I will keep your words in mind and ensure we act accordingly."

Earlier during questioning by Democratic Party lawmaker Kim Yongmin, Kim Seungwon also criticized the documents disclosed by Assemblyman Han, saying, "Some of these materials go beyond the scope of the investigation related to me, and it is clear that some documents that should have remained with the prosecution have been leaked externally," adding, "Using such materials in a distorted or piecemeal way to mislead public opinion is a significant threat to democracy."

Tensions also flared during an exchange with Joo Jinwoo, a member of the People Power Party, regarding a care facility for people with developmental disabilities where Kim’s spouse and son work. Assemblyman Joo raised suspicions of preferential treatment, pointing to claims that Kim's spouse allegedly contacted Suwon city officials to gain advantages in the selection process, and that family members’ salaries had seen a marked increase.

Kim responded, "The owners of the cooperative are the parents of children with disabilities, and the salary levels are also decided through their meetings. As the number of users increased, the workload rose as well, and my son took on both homeroom and weekend care duties." Addressing Assemblyman Joo, he added, "I suggest that Assemblyman Joo let your own son work at a developmental center. I doubt you would be raising these questions if you experienced firsthand how difficult it is to last even a week or two in such work."

When pressed by Assemblyman Park about whether his family members should continue to work at the facility, Kim replied, "I will respect the wishes of my wife and son." He added, "I intend to ensure, starting with legal administration, that those who are most vulnerable are not left behind and can live with dignity."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.