Cheong Wa Dae says it respects Kim Seung-won's decision to withdraw

Cheong Wa Dae said Saturday it understood that justice minister nominee Kim Seung-won stepped down of his own accord to ease the burden on state affairs.

Presidential Chief Spokesperson Kang Yu-jung made the remarks after Kim held an unscheduled news conference at the National Assembly press center that morning. "We respect Candidate Kim's decision," Kang said, adding that the withdrawal was understood as a choice the nominee made himself.

Kang said the necessary follow-up procedures would be carried out in accordance with established regulations, signaling that a new appointment process would follow.

Earlier that day, Kim told reporters at the unscheduled briefing that he had decided to step down after much deliberation. "I hardened my resolve after watching President Lee Jae Myung's news conference on Friday," he said.

Kim thanked President Lee for nominating him and expressed regret. "I was at the forefront of the birth of a government of popular sovereignty and ran tirelessly for its success," he said. "I am truly sorry for failing to live up to the president's expectations."

At his news conference Friday, President Lee had stopped short of committing to the appointment, saying he believed he had made the best personnel choice he could but that various controversies had emerged during the public vetting process. "I will make a careful decision taking into account the public's standards," he said.

Lee also said, without naming Kim specifically, that he intended to review the personnel selection system. "I cannot guarantee that no problems will arise in the future, but I will do my best," he added.

Ultimately, Kim withdrew in the form of a voluntary resignation just one day after the president's remarks.