Candidate Kim Seung-hee Denies 'Political Funds Act Violation'... "Never Used for Personal Purposes"

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[Asia Economy Reporter Jo In-kyung] Kim Seung-hee, nominee for Minister of Health and Welfare, refuted allegations of violating the Political Funds Act point by point and requested "accurate reporting based on the correct facts."

On the day, Kim issued a press explanation through the ministerial nominee hearing preparation team, stating, "I have never intentionally used political funds for personal purposes, and reports based on incorrect facts continue," showing a strong determination to hold the ministerial position amid talks of possible withdrawal or resignation.

Regarding allegations of private use of political funds related to automobile insurance premiums and rental car fees under her spouse's name, Kim repeatedly explained, "This was due to a practical error in the accounting process," and added, "After recently recognizing the issue and consulting with the Election Commission, I returned the funds executed due to the accounting error following their advice. Therefore, reports claiming that I admitted to violating the Political Funds Act are not true."

She also addressed the Election Commission's accusation, saying, "They did not conclude it was a violation of the Political Funds Act and file a complaint, but rather requested the prosecution to investigate whether there was a violation," and stated, "If a prosecution investigation is conducted in the future, I will sincerely explain the related matters to prove that there is no charge."

In addition, regarding allegations of using political funds for staff bonuses and donations to other lawmakers' offices, she actively refuted, saying, "Such use of political funds is lawful and explicitly stated in the Election Commission's 'Political Funds Accounting Practice' guidelines, and it is a common practice used by other National Assembly members' offices."

Kim requested accurate reporting based on facts in the future, stating, "The related reports mistakenly cited lawful fund expenditures as cases violating the Political Funds Act."

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