On October 14, political parties expressed opposing views regarding the appointment of Im Kwang-hyun, the head of the National Tax Service, as the new chief of staff for President Lee Jae-myung's second term. The Democratic Party welcomed the decision, calling Im the "right person to accelerate government achievements through cooperation between the party, government, and the Blue House," while the People Power Party criticized it as a "tax burden appointment."
Park Sung-jun, the Democratic Party's chief spokesperson, stated, "Director Im has achieved unprecedented results in resolving long-standing issues with high tax delinquents, establishing tax justice. With his experience as a member of the 22nd National Assembly, he is the right person to accelerate government achievements through collaboration with the party and the Blue House." He added, "I believe he will create tangible changes in people's livelihoods and support President Lee Jae-myung effectively."
Park Ji-won, a former chief of staff to late President Kim Dae-jung, also praised Im's appointment, saying, "Appointing Director Im, who has extensive experience in tax administration, is undoubtedly a commendable choice," and urged him to assist President Lee efficiently.
They also commended former chief of staff Kang Hoon-sik, stating, "He laid the groundwork for a government of the people's sovereignty in the face of significant challenges such as overcoming civil unrest and economic recovery," and predicted he would be remembered as a successful chief of staff.
In contrast, the People Power Party launched an offensive, arguing that appointing Im, who has been at the forefront of imposing real estate taxes, indicates a commitment to increased tax collection.
Jang Dong-hyuk, the party's leader, remarked, "Director Im was more diligent than anyone else in carrying out the tax investigations ordered by the president. He has also been a key figure in the push for the abolition of the special real estate tax, which is a tax burden on the public. He has even pushed for taxation on virtual assets, which young people oppose. This signals an intention to drop a heavier tax bomb."
Jeong Jeom-sik, the party's floor leader, questioned Im's capability to address issues related to real estate and North Korea-U.S. and South Korea-U.S. relations, given his background in tax administration.
Additionally, the People Power Party highlighted the legal history of Im's brother-in-law, Lee Seung-yeop, who has represented President Lee in various legal matters. Jang stated, "Lee has handled cases involving Daejang-dong, election law violations, perjury, and illegal remittances to North Korea. He takes care of his own legal matters and family; I hope he does the same for the public."
Representative Ahn Cheol-soo also criticized the appointment, stating, "The Daejang-dong family, centered around President Lee, has taken over the Blue House. This is a completely misguided appointment."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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