Seoul: Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won on Thursday firmly denied any intention to withdraw indictments against President Lee Jae Myung should he assume office. Kim emphasized that the justice minister lacks direct authority over such legal proceedings.

According to Yonhap News Agency, Kim, a lawmaker from the ruling Democratic Party (DP), has come under fire from the opposition People Power Party for his participation in a group of DP lawmakers advocating for the dismissal of Lee's criminal indictments. Despite the criticism, Kim maintained, "The justice minister has no direct authority, and I have no intent to issue orders through the prosecutor general. Prosecutors have the authority over maintaining indictments in individual cases, so I will respect that."

Kim stated that his involvement with the group was meant to highlight public concerns regarding state-led investigations deemed "illegal." He argued that the indictments against Lee were politically motivated, calling for their cancellation as a corrective measure.

Lee Jae Myung has faced several criminal trials since his presidential election in June of the previous year. However, these proceedings have been delayed due to the legal immunity granted to sitting presidents, except in cases of insurrection or treason. The charges against Lee involve accusations of making false statements before the 2022 presidential election, corruption linked to a development project during his tenure as Seongnam mayor, embezzlement of provincial funds while serving as Gyeonggi governor, and subornation of perjury.

In addition to the indictments, Kim addressed separate allegations concerning lobbying for the approval of a COVID-19 medication in 2021. Prosecutors previously deferred indicting Kim over claims of soliciting expedited approval from the then food and drug safety minister, ultimately suspending the indictment after concluding that the request did not constitute illegal solicitation.

Kim's confirmation hearing team clarified the situation, stating, "It was a request during the COVID-19 pandemic to examine a small domestic company's clinical trial proceedings so that they wouldn't be unfairly delayed." The team emphasized that Kim merely conveyed a public interest grievance and did not benefit from any political donations or valuables in return.