[2020 National Audit] Minister Kang Kyung-wha Apologizes Deeply Over Husband's Trip to the US Controversy Regardless of Circumstances

Minister of Foreign Affairs Kang Kyung-wha is taking the oath as a witness at the Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee's audit of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held at the National Assembly on the 7th. / 2020.10.07

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha expressed "deep regret regardless of the circumstances" regarding the controversy over her husband, Yonsei University Professor Emeritus Lee Il-byeong's trip to the United States.

Minister Kang appeared at the National Assembly Foreign Affairs and Unification Committee's audit and stated, "While the public has been refraining from overseas travel and outdoor activities due to COVID-19, my husband traveled abroad."

She added, "I expect there will be many questions and criticisms from lawmakers, and I will respond sincerely and earnestly."

Professor Emeritus Lee, the minister's husband, departed for the United States on the 3rd for personal reasons. In this context, criticism has been raised about the inappropriateness of the Foreign Minister's spouse traveling abroad for reasons such as yacht purchase, especially as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs had issued a 'Special Travel Advisory' urging citizens to avoid unnecessary travel amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.

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