Lee Won-seok: "I have never called President Yoon Seok-yeol 'hyungnim'... A junior prosecutor even can't call me 'hyungnim'"

Candidate for Prosecutor General Lee Won-seok is delivering opening remarks at the confirmation hearing held at the National Assembly on the 5th. Photo by Yoon Dong-joo doso7@

[Asia Economy Reporter Choi Seok-jin, Legal Affairs Specialist] Prosecutor General nominee Lee Won-seok stated on the 5th during the National Assembly confirmation hearing that he has never called President Yoon Seok-yeol "hyungnim" (older brother).

During the confirmation hearing held from the morning, when Rep. Kim Nam-guk of the Democratic Party of Korea mentioned, "There have been several reports that the nominee calls Prosecutor General (President) Yoon 'hyungnim' in private," Lee responded, "I have never called the President 'hyungnim' in private and have only used formal titles," adding, "I have no personal relationship with the President whatsoever."

When the nominee firmly denied this, Rep. Kim said once again, "I have received multiple reports..." but Lee reiterated, "I have never called the President 'hyungnim' in private, and I strictly prohibit junior prosecutors from calling me 'hyungnim' as well," denying the allegations raised by Rep. Kim.

He also expressed discomfort at being categorized as part of the so-called "Yoon Seok-yeol faction" or "Yoon Seok-yeol line," saying, "In my 25 years as a prosecutor, I have never thought of myself as part of any faction or close circle, nor have I ever formed gatherings with other prosecutors."

Lee added, "If entrusted with this responsibility, I will focus solely on the people to ensure that there is no doubt about the fairness and neutrality of the prosecution and strive to earn the trust of the public."

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