Im Yi-ja, the policy chief of the People Power Party, criticized the resignation of Kim Yong-beom, the head of the Presidential Policy Office, stating, "It is not a matter that can be resolved by just one person resigning." She emphasized the need for a national audit and a special prosecutor investigation regarding the single-stock leveraged exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
During her appearance on KBS 1 Radio's 'Current Affairs', Im stated, "The President needs to change the overall direction of governance; simply changing personnel will not suffice."
Regarding the circumstances surrounding Kim's resignation, she noted, "The market volatility caused by single-stock leveraged ETFs has resulted in significant harm to many investors," adding that the government's tax and real estate demand suppression policies have contributed to widespread accountability discussions within and outside the ruling party.
Im echoed the sentiments of party representative Jang Dong-hyuk, who stated that Financial Services Commission Chairman Lee Ok-keun and Financial Supervisory Service Chairman Lee Chan-jin also share responsibility. She remarked, "The atmosphere within the party is very intense." The People Power Party is advocating for a national investigation followed by a special prosecutor's appointment concerning the introduction of single-stock leveraged ETFs led by Kim.
In this context, Im insisted, "We need to clarify who proposed and approved the product, who supervised it, and who assessed its risks. An independent preliminary investigation should be conducted, and a national audit or a hearing at the standing committee level should take place. If any illegal or unjust aspects, such as bribery or data concealment, emerge, we must proceed with a special prosecutor investigation."
Meanwhile, she strongly criticized Kim Seung-won, the newly nominated Minister of Justice and a member of the Democratic Party, saying, "He is someone who exists solely for the President."
Im added, "He has co-led a group to cancel prosecutions and was at the forefront of the push to abolish investigative powers. If someone who has done this is appointed as Minister of Justice, who can believe that this will be handled fairly and impartially?"
* This article has been translated by AI.
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