Seoul:The main opposition People Power Party (PPP) has expressed strong disapproval of the presidential office following the leak of personal information belonging to President Lee Jae Myung and other significant government officials, describing the incident as a "security disaster."

According to Yonhap News Agency, the criticism arose after reports surfaced indicating that a computer file containing the details of 168 individuals, including Lee, his wife, and members of an entourage from a June overseas trip, had been made accessible on a public website.

The PPP spokesperson, Cho Yong-sool, likened the data breach to a security failure similar to "leaving the door wide open to an enemy or a terrorist group." He pointed out the exposure of identities of security personnel, medical staff, and aides assisting the president as particularly concerning. Cho urged President Lee to apologize for what he termed as "lax discipline" within the presidential office and emphasized the importance of holding those responsible accountable.

Additionally, PPP leader Jang Dong-hyeok echoed this sentiment, referencing Lee's previous statements regarding strict penalties for personal data breaches, suggesting that it might now be the presidential office's turn to face consequences.

In contrast, the ruling Democratic Party (DP) accused the PPP of politicizing the situation and cautioned against inciting public fear with unsubstantiated claims. DP floor spokesperson Lee Ju-hee highlighted that the government had promptly removed the information from the website and initiated measures to prevent further leaks, urging the PPP to await the results of the investigation and support preventive efforts.

Cheong Wa Dae, the presidential office, has confirmed taking necessary actions upon discovering the leak, with the police conducting a formal investigation into the matter.