Kim Sung-won, a nominee for Minister of Justice, has disclosed assets totaling approximately 685 million won (roughly $520,000 USD). The declared assets encompass real estate and deposits held by Kim, his spouse, his father-in-law, and his children. This disclosure comes as part of the confirmation process for his ministerial appointment, with the details submitted to the National Assembly.
Detailed Asset Breakdown
According to the submitted confirmation request documents, Kim Sung-won and his spouse jointly reported assets amounting to 515.59 million won. Kim’s personal assets include a villa lease deposit in Jangan-gu, Suwon-si, Gyeonggi Province, valued at 30 million won. Additionally, his personal deposits total 100 million won. He also reported receivables from a private individual amounting to 250 million won and financial debts of 274.46 million won.
The spouse’s reported assets include a 357 million won lease deposit for an apartment in Suwon-si, Gyeonggi Province (84m²). Further assets under the spouse’s name consist of a 386.58 million won apartment pre-sale right in Suwon-si, Gyeonggi Province, deposits of 191.34 million won, and debts totaling 438.33 million won.
Assets of Father-in-Law and Children
Assets attributed to Kim’s father-in-law include an apartment in Suwon-si, Gyeonggi Province (84m²), valued at 199 million won, and debts of 335.11 million won. The couple’s three children collectively reported deposits amounting to approximately 89 million won.
Past Legal Record: DUI Fine
In addition to the asset declaration, it has come to light that Kim Sung-won received a fine of 700,000 won (approximately $530 USD) for a drunk driving offense during his tenure as a lawyer. Records indicate that on July 4, 2008, Kim was fined by the Suwon District Court for violating the Road Traffic Act due to drunk driving.
This incident occurred in February 2008, shortly after Kim concluded his service as a prosecutor and began practicing as a lawyer. The confirmation documents submitted to the National Assembly address this past offense.
Nominee’s Apology
Following the disclosure of his past drunk driving conviction and the details of his assets, Kim Sung-won issued a statement through his confirmation hearing preparation team. The team conveyed Kim’s deep remorse, stating, “This is a mistake that cannot be tolerated for any reason.” The statement continued, “He is deeply reflecting and sincerely apologizes to the citizens of this country.”
The confirmation process for ministerial nominees typically involves a thorough review of their qualifications, background, and financial standing. Public scrutiny of these aspects is a standard part of ensuring the integrity and suitability of individuals appointed to high-ranking government positions. The disclosure of assets and any past legal issues are crucial components of this vetting process, allowing lawmakers and the public to assess potential conflicts of interest or character concerns.
The nominee’s reported assets, while substantial, are subject to examination regarding their origin and management. The presence of significant debts alongside assets is also a common element in such declarations, reflecting typical financial activities. The past drunk driving offense, though occurring over a decade ago and resulting in a fine, is being addressed as part of the nominee’s overall record. His public apology indicates an acknowledgment of the seriousness of the past infraction and its potential impact on public perception.
As the confirmation hearing proceeds, further questions may arise concerning the specifics of his financial dealings and the circumstances surrounding the drunk driving incident. The National Assembly will weigh all disclosed information, including the nominee’s explanations and apologies, in their final decision regarding his suitability for the role of Minister of Justice.
