Controversial Appointment Withdrawn: A Shift in South Korean Politics

South Korean President Lee Jae Myung withdrew Lee Hye-hoon's appointment as budget ministry chief. Initially seen as a unifying attempt, the decision followed pressure over Hye-hoon's alleged abusive remarks and problematic investments. Hye-hoon apologized during a recent hearing, but the controversies proved insurmountable, leading to her withdrawal.


Devdiscourse News Desk | Seoul | Updated: 25-01-2026 11:00 IST | Created: 25-01-2026 11:00 IST
Controversial Appointment Withdrawn: A Shift in South Korean Politics
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In a surprising turn of events, South Korean President Lee Jae Myung has retracted his decision to appoint Lee Hye-hoon as the head of the newly established budget ministry. The announcement was made by presidential secretary Woo Sang-ho in a televised address on Sunday.

The appointment of Lee Hye-hoon, a former conservative party lawmaker, was perceived as a strategic move by the liberal president to foster political unity. However, mounting allegations of Hye-hoon's abusive remarks towards colleagues and her contentious property investments led to calls for her resignation.

During a parliamentary hearing on Friday, Lee Hye-hoon issued an apology for her past behavior. Despite the apology, the growing pressures and controversies surrounding her reputation forced the president's hand in withdrawing her nomination.

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