Hong Ik-pyo, senior presidential secretary for political affairs, said on the 23rd, "It was difficult to arrange a hearing for nominee Lee Hye-hoon, and I believe President Lee Jae-myung, who has the appointment authority, will watch closely and make a judgment."
On the morning of the same day at the National Assembly, Chief Secretary Hong visited the Reform Party and met with Chair Lee Jun-seok and Floor Leader Cheon Ha-ram. After the meeting, Hong told reporters about the confirmation hearing for Lee Hye-hoon, the Minister of Planning and Budget nominee, "It was difficult to arrange the hearing, so we will watch to see that the nominee explains well the suspicions related to the nominee and the allegations that have been raised," adding, "I believe the president, who has the appointment authority, will make a sound judgment."
Regarding a hospital visit to People Power Party Chair Jang Dong-hyuk, he said he would coordinate the schedule with People Power Party Floor Leader Song Eon-seog. Hong said, "For now, stability and treatment should come first, so if a date becomes available for a visit, we will go at the earliest possible date," adding, "I expect it could be possible early next week."
On the special counsel probe into the Unification Church and candidate bribery, he conveyed that "President Lee Jae-myung does not oppose it in principle." However, Hong said, "A special counsel requires the National Assembly to pass a special counsel law, so if the ruling and opposition parties discuss it well and the bill passes, the president has no reason to veto it," adding, "If the National Assembly decides, we will respect the will of the National Assembly."
Floor Leader Cheon Ha-ram said, "There is a hearing for Lee Hye-hoon, and I think the phrase 'public's standards' is already past," adding, "Please strongly request the withdrawal of the nomination."