[Anchor]
Tensions within the broader pro-government bloc are escalating over the nomination of Kim Ji-yong to head the Serious Crime Investigation Agency (SCIA). Democratic Party of Korea Leader Kim Min-seok issued a warning to those publicly voicing criticism, while the Rebuilding Korea Party pushed back, arguing that raising legitimate concerns must not be discouraged.
Reporter Kim Kwan-jin has the details.
[Reporter]
Democratic Party Leader Kim Min-seok said today (October 12) that he has received repeated calls urging a firm response regarding an order to inspect Lim Eun-jung, head of the Gwangju Regional Serious Crime Investigation Agency, who has openly criticized nominee Kim Ji-yong.
[Kim Min-seok / Democratic Party Leader (YouTube 'Democratic Party TV'): "To be honest, I am receiving a flood of messages asking, 'Why are you doing nothing?' or 'Why are you letting this slide?'—so much so that it is virtually overflowing."]
Kim explained that he has repeatedly appealed for restraint, both directly and through close associates, and has also sent messages publicly.
[Kim Min-seok / Democratic Party Leader (YouTube 'Democratic Party TV'): "Many people feel that our efforts are reaching a tipping point."]
Ruling party figures emphasized that dissenting opinions can be adequately communicated through internal channels, stressing that public officials should also focus on their primary duties while expressing their views appropriately.
Earlier, President Lee Jae-myung wrote on social media, "The problem is demanding high positions without the competence to back them up, and launching internal attacks under the pretext of radical reform." While some interpreted this as a remark aimed at hardliners on prosecution reform, a Cheong Wa Dae official drew a line, saying, "It was not directed at any specific individual, but rather a general comment addressing those who pursue selfish interests in the name of reform."
In contrast, the Rebuilding Korea Party criticized the inspection order, stating, "It is inappropriate to create an atmosphere where speaking out with conviction against nominee Kim is chilled by ordering an inspection into Chief Lim." The party also argued that nominee Kim's past career track record is the fundamental problem, urging the swift removal of controversial candidates from consideration.
The discord within the broader pro-government camp is expected to continue through the National Assembly confirmation hearing for nominee Kim scheduled for Wednesday, October 14.
(Video by Jeon Mingyu)
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