Han Seung-sook Faces Scrutiny Over Real Estate Controversy During Confirmation Hearing

Han Seung-sook's confirmation hearing continued for a second day on June 26, with lawmakers from both parties engaged in heated exchanges over her real estate transactions.

During the hearing, Kim Hee-jung, a member of the People Power Party, raised concerns about Han's decision to rent out her officetel at a rate significantly lower than market value, and then sell it for 15 billion won, which is at least 500 million won below market price. "What kind of acquaintance would receive such a favor, which is difficult even among siblings? Isn’t this a form of indirect gifting?" she questioned.

Kim also noted Han's previous role as the hairstylist for the First Lady, claiming, "She has publicly stated that she was responsible for styling the hair of First Lady Kim Yoon-ok." She pointed out that the hairstylist posted a bragging message just two days after Han's nomination, suggesting that the sale was a quid pro quo arrangement.

In response, Lee So-young, a member of the Democratic Party, criticized the level of discourse at the hearing, stating, "It’s embarrassing that we are wasting time on such baseless accusations. Han is a successful entrepreneur who has built her wealth and was not trying to exploit her tenants for profit."

Lee questioned the necessity of knowing the tenant's past connections, asking, "Do we need to know who the tenant used to get their hair done? Are we supposed to investigate their social media to claim favoritism?" She added, "We shouldn't be wasting our time on such leaps of logic that even elementary school students wouldn't make. The level of discussion is too low."

This led to a backlash from members of the People Power Party, who urged caution in their language. Kim Seung-kyu, another member of the party, remarked, "If the hairstylist had previously styled the First Lady's hair, it raises reasonable suspicion that there could be a connection, and as a result, she might have received a lower rent as a favor."

Meanwhile, the debate continued into the afternoon, with both parties questioning Han's qualifications for the prime minister role. The People Power Party focused on her real estate dealings and the proposed abolition of investigative powers, while the Democratic Party emphasized her experience as the former Minister of SMEs and Startups, asserting that she possesses the necessary qualifications for the position.