Blue House Responds to Allegations Against Kim Seung-won

The Blue House reaffirmed its respect for the resignation intent of Kim Seung-won, a former nominee for Minister of Justice, following reports that a former aide submitted a petition containing additional allegations against him. However, the Blue House did not provide specific responses to the allegations outlined in the petition.
 
Kang Yu-jeong, the Blue House spokesperson, stated on KBS1 Radio's 'Current Affairs' program on the morning of September 21, "The Blue House responds through its personnel authority and is an institution that fulfills its responsibilities and obligations regarding personnel matters. We have responded through our personnel authority."
 
Kang explained that Kim announced his intention to resign during a press conference on September 19, and the Blue House decided to respect that decision. She added, "While we provide answers regarding the results and implications of personnel decisions, the authority over Kim Seung-won's appointment is no longer in our hands."
 
Earlier, KBS reported that a former aide of Kim had delivered a petition to the Blue House demanding the withdrawal of his nomination.
 
Kang remarked, "Other discussions are considered gossip from the Blue House's perspective. We have no responsibility to respond to gossip, and I believe those matters should be addressed by the party or other relevant entities."
 
Regarding the appointment of Kim Ji-yong, the nominee for the inaugural head of the Serious Crimes Investigation Agency, Kang noted that the timing of the agency's launch on October 2 is also being considered. However, she emphasized the importance of verification and social consensus due to the nature of appointments related to the new agency.