Seoul: The conservative People Power Party (PPP) issued an apology on Wednesday concerning the actions of former first lady Kim Keon Hee, committing to greater transparency regarding the personal affairs of a president's wife. This announcement comes as the party gears up for the presidential election scheduled for June 3.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Rep. Kim Yong-tae, the interim leader of the PPP, expressed the party's regret during a press conference at the National Assembly. He acknowledged the party's shortcomings in addressing public concerns over Kim Keon Hee's past actions. "The People Power Party respectfully apologizes to the people for having failed to fathom the people's concerns about first lady Kim Keon Hee's past actions," he stated. "The People Power Party promises to reflect deeply and change fundamentally."
The PPP leader outlined three key commitments to enhance transparency. Firstly, he assured a "transparent vetting" process for the first lady to uphold the people's right to be informed. He emphasized that any past mistakes by the first lady would not be concealed due to privacy concerns.
Further, the party plans to assign a public role and responsibilities to the first lady, ensuring transparency in the execution of her official budget. The PPP also pledged to hold her legally accountable should she misuse her official authority or engage in illegal activities.
Additionally, systemic changes are to be implemented to ensure transparent inspection and surveillance of the president's family, relatives, and close acquaintances. This move aims to address the public's concerns following allegations against Kim, the wife of former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who faced scrutiny for allegedly accepting a luxury bag illegally, interfering in candidate nominations, and other irregularities during her husband's tenure.