President Yoon Suk Yeol has officially appointed Kim Moon-soo as the new labor minister despite strong opposition from the Democratic Party of Korea due to Kim's controversial views on Korea's history under Japanese colonial rule. Kim was nominated for the position at the end of last month, having previously served as the head of the presidential Economic, Social and Labor Council. During a parliamentary confirmation hearing on Monday, Kim reiterated his belief that Koreans were considered Japanese nationals during Japan's colonial rule from 1910 to 1945, a statement that has sparked criticism for its denial of the view that Korea was founded in 1919 with the establishment of a provisional government. In addition, Kim's assertion that former President Park Geun-hye's impeachment was "wrong and will be reevaluated historically" has also drawn attention and further controversy. Despite these objections, President Yoon has proceeded with Kim's appointment as the new labor minister.