Hearing for Ministerial Nominee Kim Seung-won, Drug-Approval Solicitation and Family Favoritism Allegations at Issue

The National Assembly confirmation hearing for Justice Minister nominee Kim Seungwon is scheduled to be held on the 15th. At this hearing, allegations of lobbying for approval of Jenencell's new COVID19 drug clinical trial, familyrelated preferential treatment allegations, false residency registration, and a drunk driving record are expected to be the main subjects of scrutiny. The biggest issue is the allegation of lobbying over the new drug. Kim is reported to have sent a message in 2021 to the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety asking it to expedite approval for Jenencell's new drug clinical trial. The opposition is raising suspicions of quid pro quo, but Kim's side has countered that it was merely a simple complaint delivery. Another controversy is his relationship with the judge involved in the Jenencell case, as well as the fact that that judge's son worked in Kim's lawmaker office. In addition, allegations of preferential treatment surrounding a social cooperative where his spouse and children work, as well as allegations of split donations related to companies in his constituency, are also expected to be addressed at the hearing.