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Kim Hee-chan faces appointment opposition over Farmland Act allegations
The Jeju Federation of Peasant Associations has called for a halt to the appointment of Kim Hee-chan as the Mayor of Seogwipo, citing suspected violations of the Farmland Act. The group argues that the allegations regarding Kim's farmland acquisition and actual cultivation must be fully investigated before he takes office.
During a recent Jeju Provincial Council personnel hearing, Kim stated that he received farmland jointly with his spouse from his father in 2015 for farming purposes. However, he admitted he could not personally manage the land due to his public service duties, instead relying on relatives to oversee it. The peasant group pointed out discrepancies in his records, noting that while his management plan listed rice and barley, his actual agricultural material purchases were for citrus farming.
Despite these concerns, the Jeju Provincial Council has already adopted a report deeming Kim suitable for the position, suggesting he manage the land transparently through leasing or selling to avoid further misunderstanding. The Jeju Federation of Peasant Associations criticized the council for treating the hearing as a mere formality and urged Governor Wi Seong-gon not to proceed with the appointment until the facts are clarified. Kim is expected to be officially appointed and hold an inauguration ceremony as early as May 28.
Entities
Jeju Federation of Peasant Associations · Jeju Provincial Council · Kim Hee-chan · Seogwipo · Wi Seong-gon
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 3 SOURCES] The Jeju Federation of Peasant Associations demands a full investigation into Kim Hee-chan's alleged violations of the Farmland Act before his appointment. www.ijejutoday.com · www.mediajeju.com
- [● 3 SOURCES] Kim Hee-chan stated during a hearing that he received farmland via gift from his father in 2015 but could not farm it personally due to his public service duties. www.ijejutoday.com · www.mediajeju.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] Kim Hee-chan held a position responsible for eco-friendly agricultural administration when he acquired the farmland in question. www.ijejutoday.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Provincial Council recommended that Kim manage the farmland transparently by leasing or selling it to avoid misunderstandings. www.mediajeju.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Jeju Provincial Council passed a hearing report deeming Kim Hee-chan suitable for the position despite the Farmland Act controversy. www.mediajeju.com
- [● 2 SOURCES] The candidate submitted agricultural material purchase records for citrus farming, which contradicts the rice and barley listed in his management plan. www.ijejutoday.com