KNUT & Women’s Groups Call for Voluntary Resignation
Presidential Office to Seriously Consider Explanation and Public Opinion
[Seoul=Newsis] Reporter Kim Ji-eun reports that even organizations with a pro-government stance are calling for the resignation of Kang Seon-woo, the Minister of Gender Equality and Family nominee, and Lee Jin-sook, the Minister of Education nominee. Kang is facing allegations of abusive behavior towards her staff, and Lee is dealing with accusations of plagiarism. The presidential office is closely monitoring public opinion on these matters. Initially, the ruling party strongly opposed the idea of the nominees stepping down, but there are now discussions within the party about taking public sentiment into account.
A presidential office representative stated on the 16th, “We will keep track of public opinion trends regarding the two nominees and carefully assess the validity and persuasiveness of their explanations concerning various allegations.”
Kang has been engulfed in negative public opinion due to the ‘staff abuse’ controversy, coupled with claims of ‘false explanations’ at her confirmation hearing. The Korean Women’s Political Network criticized Kang’s responses, highlighting them as an indication of the ‘power’ she previously wielded and stating that her words and actions reveal she is unfit to be a minister both in basic competencies and awareness of the ministerial role. Similarly, the Korea Women’s Hotline also expressed concerns, saying that Kang lacks the minimal qualifications and capabilities required for the Minister of Gender Equality and Family role. Progressive parties such as the Jinbo Party and the Democratic Labor Party are also urging Kang to withdraw.
Lee is up for her confirmation hearing, with the primary issue being allegations of plagiarism, which is drawing criticism from the academic community. A group of professors who previously scrutinized plagiarism allegations against First Lady Kim Kun-hee are now calling for Lee to step down. The Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union held a press conference the previous day, not only addressing Lee’s plagiarism but also raising issues about her child’s illegal study abroad, stating that she is unqualified to be responsible for public education.
An official from the ruling party commented, “Controversies like abuse of power and favoritism are sensitive issues for the public sentiment,” adding that if more allegations surface, it could become a significant burden for the Lee Jae-myung administration, and Kang needs to make a decision.
Within the presidential office, there are some negative sentiments against forcibly proceeding with their appointments, although there are also opinions that the situation is not yet critical enough for their dismissal. A representative noted, “The decision on the nominees’ futures will be made considering public opinion trends and their explanations.”