First-ever PM nominee hearing without single witness takes place on Tuesday

A confirmation hearing took place earlier today for Prime Minister nominee Kim Min-seok and as expected rival lawmakers clashed over his credentials.

Our political correspondent Shin Ha-young covers the hearing and the conflict.

Democratic Party four-term lawmaker Kim Min-seok stood before the National Assembly on Tuesday, stating that if given the chance to serve as Prime Minister, he would do his best to fulfill his responsibilities by always listening and communicating.

"I'll work to be a forward-looking and innovative prime minister practical and unbound by protocol, hands-on rather than desk-bound, and communicative instead of giving one-sided directives."

Kim said that once in office, he would focus on quickly advancing policies over the next 100 days to address the previous government's shortcomings.

He also vowed to make reviving the economy his top priority, starting with improving people's livelihoods affected by high prices.

During the hearing, questions centered on Kim's previous conviction for illegal political funding, the sharp rise in his assets over the last five years, and concerns about his son's college admissions.

"Apart from my official salary, my other income came from congratulatory and condolence money, two book launch events, and occasional help with living expenses from my wife's mother. These made up my total additional income."

Tuesday's confirmation hearing began with arguments and harsh remarks.

The ruling Democratic Party and the main opposition People Power Party clashed from the start over the failure to select any witnesses and Kim's failure to submit key documents, mainly about his wealth and family.

With no agreement on witnesses between the parties, the hearing proceeded without any a first for a prime minister nominee.

"For the first time, the confirmation hearing is being held without witnesses. It's a blind hearing due to the nominee's failure to submit requested data, having not given consent to share personal information."

"There have been many unfair and unreasonable demands for documents. Is this really a proper confirmation hearing, or just an attempt to embarrass and criticize?"

The prime minister is the only Cabinet post needing parliamentary consent.

Confirmation needs majority approval, with a majority of lawmakers present.

The two-day hearing continues through Wednesday.

Shin Ha-young, Arirang News.