Lee Hye-hoon, nominee for Minister of Planning and Budget, offers an apology for 'immature remarks and conduct' during her confirmation hearing at the National Assembly's Finance and Economy Planning Committee on the 23rd. [Photo=Yonhap News]

Lee Hye-hoon, the nominee for Minister of Planning and Budget, has ultimately failed to secure the position.

Hong Ik-pyo, Senior Secretary to the President for Political Affairs, announced at a briefing on the 25th, "After careful consideration and deliberation, President Lee has decided to withdraw the nomination of nominee Lee."

This withdrawal comes as a result of nominee Lee Hye-hoon's inability to adequately address the allegations against her during the parliamentary confirmation hearing, which began at 10 a.m. on the 23rd and lasted for approximately 15 hours, concluding around 12:54 a.m. on the 24th.

Immediately after the hearing concluded, the People Power Party urged for her 'immediate resignation,' labeling her as an unsuitable candidate, while the Democratic Party indicated that public opinion needed to be considered. However, the Presidential Office ultimately withdrew Lee's nomination.

Meanwhile, nominee Lee faced controversy over allegations such as △irregular subscription for Raemian One Pentas △preferential admission for her eldest son △and past remarks and allegations of 'power abuse.'

Secretary Hong explained, "President Lee listened to the diverse opinions from all walks of society regarding nominee Lee and carefully reviewed the parliamentary confirmation hearing and subsequent public evaluation." He added, "Regrettably, she did not meet the public's expectations as the Minister of Planning and Budget for a government of the people's sovereignty."

By Im Yo-hee, Reporter