South Korean official Kim Seung-won announced his resignation and strongly denied allegations of lobbying related to new drugs, according to 한겨레. He said he made the decision to step down after watching a presidential press conference, the outlet reported on Saturday.
한겨레 reported that Kim's resignation came amid additional allegations, including sexual harassment claims that surfaced after his departure. The Chosun Ilbo reported that the Blue House said it was difficult to confirm a petition containing further allegations against Kim. MBC News reported that the presidential office said it respected his decision and understood it as an effort to reduce the burden on state affairs.
The Yonhap News Agency noted that Kim's abrupt resignation followed the adoption of a report despite additional allegations. 한겨레 reported that opposition parties launched a strong offensive over the sexual harassment allegations that emerged after his resignation.
Kim has strongly denied the new drug lobbying allegations, according to 한겨레. The Blue House's response to the petition and the opposition's pressure suggest the controversy is not over. What to watch next is whether further allegations emerge and how the presidential office and opposition parties respond in the coming days.