Kim Seung-won Becomes Tearful While Explaining Family Allegations; Ruling Party Offers Encouraging Applause, Opposition Calls It “Crocodile Tears”

[Financial News] Kim Seung-won, nominee for minister of the Ministry of Justice, shed tears while explaining allegations involving his family at a confirmation hearing held by the National Assembly of the Republic of Korea on the 15th.
He became tearful while addressing allegations that his wife, who serves as the representative of a social cooperative providing care for people with developmental disabilities, had received preferential treatment. Ruling-party lawmakers responded with encouraging applause, while the opposition criticized the display as “crocodile tears.”
When questions arose over his son working at the Korean Child Development Social Cooperative, which is run by his wife, and whether it was a “family cooperative,” Kim said, “The parents decide everything regarding its operation, as well as my wife’s salary and working conditions,” adding, “There is no benefit that will go to my wife.”
Regarding his son, he also said, “I feel sorry for him, but I am also proud of him for accepting his mother’s wishes and caring for children with developmental disabilities,” and countered, “He absolutely did not do this to make money or for personal gain.” He became emotional twice during the explanation.
Kim Min-jeon and Kim Tae-gyu of the People Power Party reacted coldly, even letting out derisive laughs. Kim Min-jeon also wrote “crocodile tears” in a Facebook post.
Independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon reposted on Facebook a recording in which Kim had previously told Yang, an alleged broker, “I miss you so much that tears are coming to my eyes,” in connection with allegations that he had solicited a favor for approval of a new drug clinical trial. Han then asked, “Which tears are genuine?” and retorted, “Are they the tears you shed on February 9, 2022, because you missed Yang, the room-salon broker, so much that tears came to your eyes—or are they today’s tears?”
Meanwhile, the ruling and opposition parties also clashed over the fact that the hearing was held without any witnesses or reference witnesses.


[email protected] Kim Hyeong-gu Reporter