Presidential Office on 'Kim Yeo-sa Shopping': "Situation Politicized... No Comment"

On the 17th, the Presidential Office refrained from commenting on the controversy over luxury shopping during First Lady Kim Keon-hee's visit to Lithuania, stating, "Even if we discuss the facts, it is better not to create grounds for political strife."

A key official from the Presidential Office said in the afternoon at the Yongsan Presidential Office when a reporter asked, "Is there any information or summary regarding the controversy over First Lady Kim's shopping during the trip?" "It would be better not to make any special remarks," he said.

The official added, "This issue has already become a subject of political conflict between the ruling and opposition parties in the past, such as with 'Julie' or the 'Cheongdam-dong drinking party' incidents."

The Presidential Office has already issued an explanation regarding the controversy, stating, "It is true that she entered the store and looked around and was guided, but she did not purchase any items. The store staff solicited customers."

In response, the opposition parties criticized it as "an absurd excuse" and said it "increases the public's irritation level." Even within the ruling party, some have pointed out, "First Lady Kim Keon-hee said that in her business she was neither 'Gap' (甲), 'Eul' (乙), nor 'Byeong' (丙), but 'Jeong' (丁). We ask her to stand beside President Yoon Seok-yeol with the resolve of 'Jeong' (丁)." This implies a request for her to refrain from actions that could cause further controversy, considering her status as the president's wife traveling abroad.

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