Han Seong-sook Prime Minister Hearing: Real Estate and Naver Ties Under Scrutiny

Prime Minister nominee Han Sung-sook faces a two-day confirmation hearing starting Oct. 25, according to reports. The People Power Party is seeking her withdrawal over allegations of 3 billion won in real estate profits, suspected tax-avoidant family rentals, and a 5,000-person data leak during her tenure as Minister of SMEs and Startups.

Why is Han Sung-sook’s real estate history under scrutiny?

The People Power Party is targeting Han’s property transactions, specifically a Jamsil apartment she sold just before her nomination. This sale reportedly generated 3 billion won in profit. Han previously owned four homes but has since reduced her holdings to one.

Lawmakers also allege Han used “under-market” rentals to avoid gift taxes. Records show she leased two buildings in Yeongeon-dong to her brother for a 30 million won deposit and 3.5 million won monthly rent. She also leased a portion of a house in Jongno-gu to her sister for a 10 million won deposit and 1.3 million won monthly rent.

Han’s team responded that these rates were low because it was difficult to find other tenants. Regarding allegations of illegal building expansions in Yeongeon-dong, Han apologized and stated a demolition contract was signed in December of last year.

Did You Know? Han Sung-sook served as the CEO of Naver from March 2017 until March 2022 before entering government service.

What was the “Everyone’s Startup” data leak?

During her time as Minister of SMEs and Startups, a hacking incident at a partner company compromised the personal information of approximately 5,000 participants in the “Everyone’s Startup” project. The People Power Party claims the ministry’s response and notification process were delayed.

Han has issued a formal apology for the breach. She promised to establish measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the “Naver Cabinet” narrative creates a strategic tension. While the ruling party views corporate leadership as an asset for economic recovery, the opposition frames the concentration of former Naver executives in high office as a systemic risk for conflict of interest.

How does Han’s Naver background affect her nomination?

The People Power Party argues that Han’s appointment would grant former Naver executives excessive influence over national administration. They point to Ha Jung-woo, former presidential AI secretary, and Culture Minister Choi Hwi-young, a former NHN representative, as existing examples of this trend.

Han Seong-sook nominated for Prime Minister

Opposition members may also raise concerns about “collusion” between politics and business. They cite Naver’s previous sponsorship of Seongnam FC during the president’s tenure as mayor of Seongnam as a potential conflict of interest.

Democratic Party official Kim Han-gyu dismissed these claims as “absurd” political attacks. Kim stated that the party will proceed with thorough verification of requested materials but argued that the current economy requires the specific expertise a Naver-background leader provides.

What may happen next?

The hearing is likely to center on whether Han’s corporate ties and real estate dealings constitute disqualifying conflicts of interest. If the People Power Party maintains its demand for withdrawal, the appointment process could face significant legislative friction.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the confirmation hearing for Han Sung-sook?
The hearing is scheduled for two days, beginning on Oct. 25.

What is the “Naver Cabinet” controversy?
It is the claim by the People Power Party that too many former Naver executives, including Han Sung-sook, Ha Jung-woo, and Choi Hwi-young, hold influential government positions.

How much profit did Han make from her Jamsil apartment?
Reports indicate she earned a profit of 3 billion won from the sale.

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