Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung has decided to withdraw his nomination of Education Minister nominee Lee Jin-sook, the presidential office announced Sunday. This decision comes after allegations surfaced regarding the unlawful overseas education of Lee's daughter at an early age.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the presidential secretary for political affairs, Woo Sang-ho, stated during a press briefing that President Lee had deeply reviewed the nomination after considering various opinions. Woo urged the National Assembly to swiftly implement follow-up measures in light of the withdrawal.
The controversy centers around Lee Jin-sook's second daughter, who was sent to study in the United States in 2007. At the time, she was in her third year of middle school, which violated the Elementary and Secondary Education Act that mandates compulsory education up to middle school in South Korea. During her confirmation hearing, Lee, who is an architecture professor, expressed sincere regret but claimed she was unaware that her actions were illegal.
In addition to the education controversy, Lee Jin-sook also faced allegations of academic plagiarism. However, she dismissed these claims, asserting that the media reports were based on a misunderstanding of the academic context.
The presidential office did not address the situation regarding Gender Equality Minister nominee Kang Sun-woo, who is also under public scrutiny for workplace abuse allegations involving former parliamentary aides. When questioned about the potential appointment of Kang, the presidential secretary clarified that the withdrawal only pertains to the education minister nominee.
Woo concluded by acknowledging the diverse opinions on the matter and expressed hope that the public would understand the decision, which was made following a comprehensive review.