Democratic Party Respects Kim Seungwon's Resignation... Counterattacks Han Donghoon's 'Leak of Investigation Documents'

Ruling Party Responds to Kim Seungwon's Resignation as Justice Minister Nominee
"Decision Aimed at Easing Burden on State Affairs"
Calls for Investigation into Han Donghoon's Alleged Leak of Investigative Materials

On September 19, the ruling Democratic Party of Korea expressed respect for Kim Seungwon's voluntary resignation as the nominee for Minister of Justice, describing it as “a decision aimed at lessening the burden on state affairs.” At the same time, the party pushed back at independent lawmaker Han Donghoon, who had raised allegations against Kim, insisting that the suspicions of leaked investigative materials must also be thoroughly investigated.

Kim Seungwon, the nominee for Minister of Justice, is leaving the National Assembly press center after a resignation press conference on the 19th. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Park Sungjun, chief spokesperson for the Democratic Party, stated in a written briefing that day, “This was a decision by the nominee to ensure no additional burden is placed on state governance," adding, “We respect this difficult decision.” Park continued, “The Democratic Party will listen with greater humility and do its utmost to ensure the success of a government based on popular sovereignty.”

Seo Youngkyo, chairperson of the National Assembly’s Legislation and Judiciary Committee, wrote on Facebook, “It is regrettable, but I respect this decision.” Park Ji-won, a member of the same committee, commented, “Opting for voluntary resignation to relieve the President of this burden sets an example of self-sacrifice.”

The Democratic Party argued that, apart from Kim’s resignation, a thorough investigation into Han’s suspected leaking of investigative documents is necessary. Jeon Yonggi, Supreme Council member, emphasized, “The resignation of the nominee does not automatically justify the entire process of raising these suspicions,” adding, “Now, it is Han’s turn to respond.”

On the 19th, independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon held a press conference at the National Assembly Communication Office. Photo by Yonhap News Agency

Jeon further insisted that Han should clarify how he obtained documents that appear to be investigative materials, such as the 'Prosecution Plan Report' made public by Han. Jeon continued, “If confidential investigative materials were wrongfully leaked and used for political purposes, both the person who handed over the materials and those who used them must be held strictly accountable under the law.”

Kang Deukgu, head of the Institute for Democracy, also demanded clarification of how the documents were obtained, stating, “If the information was acquired through improper procedures, this goes beyond mere political offensive and shakes the very foundation of public duty and the rule of law.” Han Minsu, another Supreme Council member, asserted, “We must adhere to a principle of zero tolerance with regard to suspicions that Han was involved in leaking investigation records.”

Park Byeongeon, spokesperson for the Cho Kuk Innovation Party, also commented, “Despite having the willingness and capability for prosecutorial reform, Kim Seungwon decided to step down out of consideration for President Lee Jae-myung’s political burden. I wish to offer my condolences.” Park added, “Even if there were areas requiring explanation by the nominee, the resurrection of ‘investigative document editing politics’ spearheaded by Han Donghoon is deeply concerning. Let us, through solidarity among the progressive camp, prevent the revival of such ‘investigative document editing politics.’”

Independent Lawmaker Han Donghoon. Photo by Yonhap News

That day, Kim Seungwon abruptly announced his voluntary resignation as nominee. At his resignation press conference, Kim stated, “After deep deliberation, I have decided to step down as nominee for Minister of Justice. I sincerely accept that I fell short of the public’s expectations and will reflect deeply on my shortcomings.” Nevertheless, he characterized the prosecution’s investigation surrounding him as a “targeted investigation” and pledged to reveal the full truth, including the suspected unlawful leak of investigative secrets involving Han.

Kim Seungwon, who previously served as the co-representative of the Democratic Party’s group advocating for dismissal of prosecutions, was designated as the leading candidate for withdrawal by the conservative opposition from the moment of his nomination, claiming it was an appointment aimed at dismissing the indictment involving President Lee. Subsequently, as suspicions of lobbying for clinical trial approvals for new drugs and controversies involving his family spread, dissent also grew within the progressive camp. President Lee stated his caution regarding Kim’s appointment the previous day, and ultimately, Kim was forced to withdraw his nomination on September 19.

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