Cho Kuk, the former leader of the National Innovation Party, who was sentenced to two years in prison for charges including academic fraud for his children and tampering with a Blue House investigation, appeared before his supporters outside the Seoul Detention Center in Uiwang, Gyeonggi Province, on the morning of the 16th. He expressed his determination by raising his fist before being detained. In a statement, Cho said, “During my time in prison, I will deeply reflect on my shortcomings and limitations.”
Cho continued, “Although I do not agree with the fact-finding and legal application of the court’s judgment, I humbly accept the Supreme Court’s verdict.” He was sentenced to two years in prison by the Supreme Court on the 12th, and after the prosecutors approved a stay of execution, he began his detention at the Seoul Detention Center from this day.
Cho remarked, “The National Innovation Party fought alongside the people for the impeachment of Yoon Seok-yeol, and finally, the impeachment bill was passed on December 14th. The instigator of rebellion, Yoon Seok-yeol, and his accomplices must be thoroughly investigated and punished.” He also mentioned that the “prosecutors’ coup” that began after his nomination for Minister of Justice in 2019 ended with Yoon’s impeachment, adding that “what remains now is dismantling the prosecution.”
He urged the Innovation Party to focus on a change in government, emphasizing that “under no circumstances should the conspirators from the People’s Power Party maintain control.” After the change in government, he said, “We should move towards a 7th Republic, a ‘welfare state,’ and I ask the Innovation Party to lead and refine this process well.”
Cho addressed his supporters, referring to the poem “Silence of Love” by Han Yong-un, saying, “The place I will return to when I regain my freedom is the National Innovation Party, and I ask for your strong support and sponsorship.” He concluded his speech with, “You are now the nation,” urging people to fill the void left by his absence.
After the speech, Cho shared a hug with Kim Sun-min, acting head of the party, bid farewell to supporters, and entered the Seoul Detention Center.