South Korean administration insists on hearings for ministerial candidates
In South Korea, the presidential administration stated that justice minister candidate Kim Seung-won and gender equality minister candidate Yong Hye-in must undergo confirmation hearings at the National Assembly, despite mounting criticism surrounding their nominations. As The Korea Herald reports, the administration also acknowledged concerns about the vetting procedure for candidates and promised to strengthen the personnel selection system.
Dispute over parliamentary mandate
Yong Hye-in has been criticized over her intention to retain her National Assembly seat, obtained through the proportional representation system, if she is appointed to the government. The publication notes that this differs from the established practice of relinquishing parliamentary powers after joining the Cabinet.
Attention has also been drawn to her husband Park Ki-hon's ties to the Basic Income Party. He held leadership positions in this political force and received about 3 million won per month as a party official.
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Police investigation and president's rating
Kim Seung-won has again come under close scrutiny over claims that in 2021 he allegedly helped relay a biotechnology company's request to expedite approval of a COVID-19-related clinical trial. Police have opened an investigation into the case.
The presidential administration also denied reports that Democratic Party leaders had allegedly asked for Yong Hye-in's nomination to be withdrawn. Meanwhile, according to Realmeter, President Lee Jae-myung's approval rating fell to 37.4%, its lowest level since his inauguration in June 2025. Realmeter named the controversies surrounding the candidates as one of the main factors behind the decline.
