Cheong Wa Dae: "Respects Kim Seung-won's Decision to Step Down... Understood as an Effort to Ease Burden on State Affairs"

Cheong Wa Dae stated today (September 19) regarding Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won's voluntary withdrawal, "We respect nominee Kim's decision."

Kang Yu-jung, Cheong Wa Dae's chief spokesperson, said in an announcement issued following Kim's withdrawal statement, "We understand that the nominee made this decision to ease the burden on state affairs."

Chief Spokesperson Kang added, "Necessary follow-up procedures will proceed in accordance with established regulations."

President Lee nominated Kim on August 30, and the National Assembly's Legislation and Judiciary Committee held a confirmation hearing on September 15, adopting Kim's confirmation hearing report two days later under the lead of the ruling party.

However, on this day—the day after President Lee's press conference—Kim announced his intention to voluntarily withdraw, stating that he "fell short of the public's expectations."

At the press conference, when asked whether he would appoint Kim, President Lee had said, "I thought I made the best possible nomination, but various controversies are arising during the public vetting process," adding, "I have not yet reached a final conclusion. I will make a prudent decision considering the public's expectations and other factors."
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.