Controversy Erupts Over Taxpayer-Funded Kim Geon-hee Keyring

Controversy Surrounds Kim Geon-hee Keyring Purchased with Taxpayer Money

A recent controversy has erupted over the purchase of a keyring associated with Kim Geon-hee, symbolizing Busan with a wave image and the slogan “Busan is ready.” The keyring, designed to promote the 2030 Busan Expo, has come under scrutiny due to budgetary concerns. It has been reported that the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Energy (MOTIE) spent approximately 7 million won to acquire these keyrings, but the purchase was not properly recorded in the essential inventory management ledger, leading to criticism.

Purchase Details of the Keyring

The significance of this keyring goes beyond being a mere accessory. It was part of an extensive promotional campaign to raise Busan’s international profile. Kim Geon-hee personally oversaw the design and actively participated in the planning stages. A total of 2,000 keyrings were purchased for the Busan Expo promotion, with the cost classified under general expenses. The allocated budget for this project was around 710,600 won, entirely funded by taxpayers.

Usage and Distribution for Promotion

MOTIE has revealed that the keyrings were distributed during major international events, including the BIE General Assembly, as part of the Busan Expo promotion. However, the ministry’s failure to manage the inventory ledger has raised concerns about transparency and accountability. This documentation lapse is a violation of budget allocation guidelines, and the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism may face potential administrative audits.

Kim Geon-hee’s Public Appearance

Kim Geon-hee was captured wearing the keyring while accompanying Prosecutor General Yoon Seok-yeol at Paris Orly Airport, sparking discussions and highlighting the symbolic significance of the keyring. Apart from being a promotional item, the keyring also became a visual representation of the progress in Busan’s Expo preparations during Kim Geon-hee’s overseas visits.

Involvement of Busan City

Criticism and Accountability

MOTIE’s negligence in inventory management has drawn criticism for their management practices. The lack of proper documentation raises concerns about transparency and the appropriate use of taxpayer funds. As this keyring is directly linked to the Busan Expo promotion, there is a demand for accountability regarding the expenditure. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is carefully reviewing the situation and considering appropriate actions.

A Symbol of Preparation

Ultimately, the ‘Kim Geon-hee keyring’ goes beyond being a simple promotional item. It serves as a symbol of Busan’s continuous efforts to attract the Expo and its preparedness to host international events. As the situation unfolds, the implications of budget issues and demands for transparency will continue to shape public discourse on the Expo and the involvement of key figures.

Source: Kyunghyang Shinmun