Kim Min-seok, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, addressed ongoing criticism from within the ruling bloc regarding prosecution reform and the nomination of Kim Ji-yong to head the Major Crimes Investigation Agency on Monday (October 12), pointing out, "There has been criticism over constantly dragging in the president or the party while shifting logic and targets."

Leader Kim made the remarks on "MinT07," a program on the Democratic Party's YouTube channel, in response to a question asking for his thoughts on a post published on X (formerly Twitter) by President Lee Jae-myung on October 9.

In the post, President Lee stated, "While pure radicalism may be an issue, the real problem is demanding high-ranking positions despite lacking competence, trying to manipulate personnel appointments and national policies to one's own will, and then, when that does not work out, using radical reform as a righteous cause to launch internal attacks."

This was interpreted as targeting Gyeonggi Province Governor Choo Mi-ae, Democratic Party Representative Kim Yong-min, and Im Eun-jeong, head of the Gwangju Regional Major Crimes Investigation Agency, all of whom have strongly pushed back during the prosecution reform process.

Regarding President Lee's message, Leader Kim said, "The president values rationality and is open to criticism, so wasn't he continuing to express his concern regarding rationality?" adding, "I believe frustration lies at the heart of it."

He continued, "Even when criticizing, one should do so in the most appropriate manner suited to one's position and role while fulfilling one's duties. (The president's message reflects) an overall awareness of the problem of expressing criticism in an inappropriate way that seems to lack focus."

Regarding the order by Minister of the Interior and Safety Yun Ho-jung to inspect Chief Im, who has criticized nominee Kim's appointment, Leader Kim remarked, "I also receive an overwhelming number of comments asking, 'Why on earth is (Chief Im) being left alone?'"

Leader Kim emphasized, "The ruling party can sufficiently raise issues internally, and public officials would do well to do so in a different manner," adding, "It is best to focus on the work one is tasked with."

His remarks are interpreted to mean that Chief Im crossed the line in criticizing the government over matters outside the scope of her official duties.

(Photo: Yonhap News)