Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung emphasized the importance of allowing Prime Minister nominee Kim Min-seok to address allegations regarding his wealth and family at upcoming confirmation hearings. This statement was made during a luncheon with leaders of both the ruling Democratic Party (DP) and the main opposition People Power Party (PPP).

According to Yonhap News Agency, the meeting took place after PPP leaders raised concerns about Kim’s alleged misconduct and his perceived inappropriate responses. Senior presidential secretary for political affairs, Woo Sang-ho, reported that President Lee suggested it would be prudent to hear Kim’s explanations during the hearings scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday.

The nominee has faced increasing scrutiny over issues such as a past conviction for accepting illegal political funds and a significant increase in his assets over the past five years. Kim has publicly denied these allegations, describing them as politically motivated attacks.

The luncheon was attended by key political figures including Kim Byung-kee, acting leader and floor leader of the DP, and Kim Yong-tae, PPP’s interim leader. President Lee supported calls for reform in the parliamentary confirmation process, noting that the current practice of disclosing personal details discourages capable individuals from joining the Cabinet.

Discussions also covered the sharing of parliamentary committee chairmanships between rival parties. President Lee urged negotiation as a means to resolve differences. Additionally, he shared insights from his recent participation in the Group of Seven summit in Canada, highlighting the need for bipartisan cooperation on foreign policy issues.

President Lee expressed surprise at the warm reception he received at the G7 meeting and noted Japan’s positive engagement, particularly referencing Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s attendance at a reception in Tokyo marking the 60th anniversary of normalized bilateral ties.

Regarding the government’s extra budget proposal, President Lee acknowledged differing opinions but committed to executing it swiftly, ensuring that opposing views are considered.

This meeting, occurring just 18 days after Lee’s inauguration, marked an early interaction between the president and opposition leaders compared to previous administrations. Woo stated that both parties agreed to continue such candid discussions frequently in the future.