Kim Tae-nyeon on Calls for Byun Chang-heum's Dismissal: "Too Early to Discuss Position... Must Judge Carefully"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jin-young] Kim Tae-nyeon, Acting Leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, said on the 11th regarding the calls for the dismissal of Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport Byeon Chang-heum, raised by the Korea Land and Housing Corporation (LH) scandal, “It is still too early to talk about his position,” and emphasized that careful judgment is needed as it could negatively affect the real estate market.

At a press briefing at the National Assembly on the same day, Acting Leader Kim said, “It seems too early to talk about (Minister Byeon’s) position. I think it is not too late to make a decision after reviewing the investigation results.”

He added, “After Minister Byeon took office, the 2·4 Supply Plan was announced, and the public has high expectations for supply,” emphasizing, “Since the goal is to achieve housing stability through the plan, the role of the Minister of Land, Infrastructure and Transport, who is leading the supply plan, is very important.” He continued, “If a wrong judgment is made, it could hinder the supply plan and negatively impact the real estate market, so this is an issue that requires careful consideration.”

Regarding some calls for reforms equivalent to the dismantling of LH, Acting Leader Kim said, “I believe a painful reform is necessary to restore trust,” but also mentioned, “However, when the Sewol ferry disaster occurred in the past, the Park Geun-hye administration dismantled the Coast Guard, which actually significantly weakened our maritime security and rescue capabilities.” He added, “While LH needs reform, dismantling the frontline institution for public housing supply does not seem to be an appropriate expression.”

Regarding the opposition party’s demand for a public apology from President Moon Jae-in on this matter, he drew a line by saying, “That is a matter for the President to decide,” and “I believe the Blue House will make an appropriate judgment.”

He also stated about the agreement of Kim Jong-in, Emergency Committee Chairman of the People Power Party, to the previously proposed full investigation of lawmakers, “We will try to promote a joint investigation (by both parties),” and “We will also discuss the scope of the investigation.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.