Independent Rep. Han Dong-hoon has called for a special counsel investigation after releasing 2021 text messages that he says broaden allegations that Justice Minister nominee Kim Seung-won sought to accelerate regulatory approval for Genencell’s Covid-19 drug. The messages between broker Yang and Genencell founder Kang Se-chan mention an unidentified Democratic Party lawmaker surnamed Choi, Rep. Song Young-gil and potential investment figures of 800 million won to 1 billion won. Kim denies seeking preferential treatment and says prosecutors examined the case for three years and suspended his indictment. The People Power Party has intensified its opposition to Kim’s nomination, citing Genencell’s concealed animal-test results, its 10 billion won investment from Sejong Medical and alleged links involving KH Group. Genencell’s treatment ultimately failed, while Sejong Medical was delisted in June after its shares initially rose and then entered a prolonged decline.