Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won is facing controversy after a photo of him with a broker related to the approval of the clinical trial for the gene therapy drug Jenesen was released. Kim is suspected of requesting preferential treatment for Jenesen CEO Kang Mo from his acquaintance, Seoul Central District Court Chief Judge Jeong In-jae, at the broker's request. While Kim explained that he only met the broker by chance and had no further contact, a recording revealed him referring to Judge Jeong as "best friend" and inviting the broker to a drinking session with him, fueling ongoing controversy. Judge Jeong has declined to comment separately.
