SEOUL, - The Democratic Party (DP), South Korea's main opposition, called on President Yoon Suk Yeol to retract the appointment of a former senior prosecutor as head of the state broadcasting watchdog. The DP asserts that this move is an effort to increase governmental control over broadcasters.
According to Yonhap News Agency, The DP's floor leader, Rep. Hong Ihk-pyo, expressed these concerns following President Yoon's nomination of Kim Hong-il, a former prosecutor and the head of the state anti-corruption agency, to succeed Lee Dong-kwan as chairman of the Korea Communications Commission (KCC). This nomination comes after Lee's resignation last week, preceding a parliamentary vote on his impeachment.
Hong criticized the nomination at a party policy coordination meeting, questioning the suitability of Kim, who lacks experience in broadcasting and communications, for the future of the media industry. Hong also accused Kim of using his term at the Anti-Corruption and Civil Rights Commission to initiate investigations against some MBC TV board members, allegedly to strengthen government control over broadcasters.
The DP demands the withdrawal of Kim's nomination, advocating for a candidate more aligned with public expectations and skilled in broadcasting and communications.
In response, the ruling People Power Party (PPP) reproached the DP for its continuous opposition, arguing that it has led to a prolonged stalemate at the KCC. Rep. Park Jung-ha, the PPP's chief spokesperson, emphasized the urgency of appointing a new KCC chief to promote a fair broadcasting environment, particularly in the context of the upcoming parliamentary elections in April and the significant influence of broadcasters on voters.