Park Hong-keun says Yong Hye-in's stance fueling public backlash over fairness

Ministry of Planning and Budget Minister Park Hong-keun said Tuesday that public opinion appears to be turning against minister-designate for gender equality and family Yong Hye-in, suggesting her conduct reflects "excessive ambition or overreach that runs counter to public sentiment, equity and fairness."

Speaking on YTN Radio's "Jang Seong-cheol's News Myeongdang," Park said Yong should reflect on "whether her own position and stance have brought this situation upon herself."

Yong has drawn criticism over her insistence on holding both her proportional-representation National Assembly seat and the ministerial post simultaneously, sparking a controversy over preferential treatment and fairness.

The controversy surrounding Yong has continued to grow. Allegations have emerged over the appointment of her husband, Park Ki-hong, a senior official of the Basic Income Party, to a key party post — raising questions of nepotism — along with scrutiny over government subsidy payments, the party's alleged transformation into a personal vehicle for Yong, the proportional-representation candidate selection process, and claims of an illicit internal organization.

Park said he is aware that "even younger generations are raising concerns that she may be enjoying excessive benefits," adding that there are calls for Yong to "consider such sentiment as a young politician."

Meanwhile, Park addressed concerns about rising national debt stemming from next year's budget proposal, saying South Korea's public debt "remains at a level that is fully manageable over the medium to long term when compared with major countries or assessed by international organizations."