“Reviewing reorganization of internal staff inspection department”
Opposition focuses on political bias allegations
On December 29, Kim Ho-cheol, the candidate for Auditor General, attended a confirmation hearing at the National Assembly. During the hearing, Kim stated his stance against allowing specific factions within the Board of Audit and Inspection (BAI) and expressed intent to examine the organization. This comes amid criticism that a certain faction, centered around former secretary-general Yoo Byung-ho (now an auditor), led politically-targeted audits under the Yoon Suk-yeol administration, prompting Kim’s commitment to internal reform.
In response to Democratic Party member Kim Ki-pyo’s questions about unfair personnel benefits such as promotions, overseas studies, and key postings given to Yoo’s associates, Kim said, “If there are factions within the BAI, they must absolutely not be allowed.” He further promised to eliminate such factions if they exist and prevent their reformation.
Kim was cautious when questioned about Yoo’s position. When Democratic Party member Lee Yeon-hee asked whether it was appropriate for Yoo to remain an auditor given his alleged political audits, Kim replied, “It’s delicate to speak about a current auditor and their position is legally protected,” adding that he preferred to refrain from extensive comments as a candidate.
Kim also pledged to enhance the self-regulatory functions of the BAI, admitting criticisms about inadequate control over staff misconduct, and vowing to review restructuring the department that inspects internal staff.
Regarding concerns about potential human rights violations and breaches of warrant principles due to indiscriminate digital forensics by the BAI, Kim promised to ensure there are no elements of human rights violations and highlighted the intent to codify the collection and management regulations of digital forensic materials into BAI law.
In relation to audits concerning the relocation of former President Yoon Suk-yeol’s residence, Kim suggested that a re-examination could be considered if necessary. Responding to Democratic Party member Baek Seung-a’s request for a re-examination, citing that the audit was insufficient with operations like 21 Gram’s investigation only being conducted through written surveys, Kim stated he would assess the necessity of such actions.
Opposition members heavily criticized the insufficient submission of data concerning foreign currency savings, remittance records, and the candidate’s spouse’s customs declaration violations. They also raised concerns about potential political bias related to Kim’s past involvement with the Lawyers for a Democratic Society.