Seoul: Prime Minister nominee Kim Min-seok sought to clarify allegations surrounding his wealth during a confirmation hearing Tuesday, saying he was able to spend more than his official income thanks to monetary gifts on family events and allowances from his mother-in-law. Kim made the remark on the first of two days of confirmation hearings at the National Assembly, as the main opposition People Power Party has demanded his withdrawal over a string of allegations involving his personal assets and his son's college admissions, among other issues.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim explained, "Outside of my (lawmaker's) salary, my income consisted of congratulatory or condolence money, two book launching ceremonies, and occasional support for living expenses from my mother-in-law." He further added that the amount collected from these sources was not excessive, considering his career length and the events held at the National Assembly, though he expressed gratitude for the support received.
Since his nomination by President Lee Jae Myung earlier this month, Kim has faced increased scrutiny over various issues, including a past conviction for accepting illegal political funds, a significant increase in his assets over the last five years, his son's admission to Cornell University, and his own studies at China's Tsinghua University. The People Power Party has raised questions concerning the discrepancy between Kim's official income as a lawmaker, reported to be 510 million won (US$374,000) over the past five years, and his confirmed spending of at least 1.3 billion won during the same period.
The ruling Democratic Party has dismissed the allegations as politically motivated attacks. President Lee has opted for a cautious approach, stating, "I think it is desirable for us to watch his own explanations during the confirmation process" during a meeting with rival party leaders.
The prime minister is the sole Cabinet position requiring parliamentary consent for appointment. Other ministerial nominees undergo a confirmation process, but consent is not necessary for their appointment by the president. The motion for a prime minister's confirmation requires majority approval with a majority of lawmakers present. Kim's motion can be passed by the Democratic Party, which currently holds a parliamentary majority with 167 out of 298 seats.
In his opening remarks, Kim expressed concern over a potential crisis, warning of a situation worse than the Asian financial crisis of 1997. "The Republic of Korea faces a general crisis at home and abroad," he stated. "I hope that my experience will at least be a little help to the newly launched administration's stable settlement and overcoming of the current crisis." Kim is a four-term lawmaker of the Democratic Party and a former top campaign aide to President Lee.