Im Yi-ja, chair of the People Power Party's Policy Committee, criticized the government on October 7 for its investment in the U.S. and the process of promoting the Alaska liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, expressing concerns that the government may be deceiving the public.
During an appearance on Channel A's radio program 'Political Signal,' Im focused on the government's decision to transfer $2.4 billion as its first investment in the U.S. and to pay a $10 billion advance for a nuclear power project.
Im pointed out that in the case of 'Project Star,' there has been no commercial viability assessment, including AI data demand or power purchase agreements (PPAs). She noted that the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between South Korea and the U.S. stipulates that funds should be transferred after 45 days, yet the government sent the $2.4 billion immediately. Project Star refers to the construction and operation of a gas-fired power plant in Encinal, Texas, which is the first investment project in the U.S.
Regarding the Alaska LNG project, Im highlighted the differing positions of the two countries. She stated, 'While we are still in the review and promotion stages, President Donald Trump has mentioned $54 billion, indicating that this project is included, and U.S. Vice President JD Vance has said that South Korea will have no choice but to proceed.' She criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the immediate transfer of $2.4 billion and the promise of a $10 billion advance, questioning what transpired during the U.S.-South Korea meeting on September 22 in New York.
Im further emphasized that the Alaska pipeline requires prior consent from the National Assembly if the commercial viability is deemed insufficient or if adequate conditions for repayment are not met. She questioned how the government could treat the $10 billion advance as a given without prior reporting or consent from the National Assembly.
While acknowledging the necessity of investment in the U.S., Im expressed concerns about the risks associated with such projects, stating, 'Of course, we need to do this,' but warned that high-risk ventures could burden future generations with debt. She reiterated the importance of a thorough review of the project's viability by the National Assembly.
* This article has been translated by AI.
Copyright ⓒ Aju Press All rights reserved.