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Allegations of corruption against Justice Minister nominee

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2026-09-11 07:49 UTC → 2026-09-11 15:13 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The confirmation process for Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won has intensified as allegations regarding his professional conduct and family finances undergo scrutiny. While Kim maintains that his interactions with the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety regarding 2021 COVID-19 clinical trials were legitimate, independent lawmaker Han Dong-hoon has released documents suggesting a “lobbying gate.” New developments have escalated the legal pressure on Kim. The Seoul Yeongdeungpo Police Station has launched a formal investigation into allegations that Kim violated the Improper Solicitation and Graft Act, abused his authority, and neglected his duties. This probe follows complaints by former Seoul City Council member Lee Jong-bae and the Seomin Minsaeng Committee. Lee alleges Kim pressured the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety to approve a COVID-19 treatment clinical trial for Genencell despite insufficient documentation. The Seomin Minsaeng Committee has further alleged violations of the Political Fund Act, suggesting donations were promised in exchange for solicitation. Kim has denied these claims, asserting he was merely conveying a “civil complaint” to address unfairness faced by a small company. He also defended his hiring of a judge’s son as a legislative assistant, stating the process involved a public interview. Political pressure is also mounting. People Power Party floor leader Jung Jeom-sik has called for a parliamentary investigation and a special prosecutor, characterizing the situation as a “gate” involving lobbying and stock price manipulation. Jung specifically linked the allegations to KH Group and its connections to former Ssangbangwool chairman Kim Seong-tae. Jung warned that the nominee, intended to be a specialized minister to clear wrongdoing, has instead become a “landmine” for the administration. Kim’s parliamentary confirmation hearing is scheduled for the 15th.

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