Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won voluntarily stepped down from his nomination today (September 19).

This comes 20 days after President Lee Jae-myung nominated him as the Minister of Justice on August 30.

During a press conference that day, nominee Kim said, "After deep deliberation, I have decided to step down from the post of Justice Minister nominee," adding, "I am truly sorry for failing to live up to expectations."

He continued, "Watching the president's press conference yesterday solidified my decision," stating, "I heavily accept that I fell short of public expectations and will reflect on my shortcomings."

Earlier, when asked during yesterday's press conference about whether he would proceed with Kim's appointment, President Lee remarked, "The more personnel appointments I make, the harder I feel it gets," adding, "While we believe we made the best appointment in our own right, I see various controversies arising during the public vetting process."