Seoul: President Lee Jae Myung has formally requested the National Assembly to submit its hearing report on gender equality and family minister nominee Kang Sun-woo by July 24, signaling his intent to proceed with her appointment despite growing public discontent.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Kang, a current lawmaker from the Democratic Party (DP), is embroiled in controversy following allegations of abusive behavior toward her aides and senior officials, including retaliatory actions against a former cabinet minister. The administration's move to advance her appointment, despite the contentious atmosphere, suggests a prioritization of political allegiance over public opinion.
Unlike Lee Jin-sook, a former education minister nominee whose candidacy was withdrawn, Kang occupies a legislative position. Since the inception of confirmation hearings in Korea, no sitting lawmaker has failed the vetting process. Analysts observe that President Lee may be apprehensive that failing Kang's nomination could weaken his authority within the ruling party, especially as several incumbent lawmakers have recently been considered for ministerial roles. A rejection of Kang might also dampen expectations among other lawmakers aspiring for similar advancements.
Nevertheless, proceeding with Kang's appointment could clash with public sentiment, potentially incurring political repercussions. Criticism has arisen not only from the conservative sector but also from progressive organizations such as the Korean Confederation of Trade Unions and the People's Solidarity for Participatory Democracy. If the president continues with the nomination, it could cast doubts on how his administration distinguishes itself from that of his predecessor, Yoon Suk Yeol, who faced similar critiques for personnel decisions.
Public ire has been further fueled by dismissive comments from ruling party members defending Kang. DP floor operations chief Moon Jin-seok remarked that "abuse in a lawmaker's office is somewhat different in nature from ordinary workplace abuse," suggesting that misconduct by lawmakers might be considered less severe. In reality, aides in parliamentary offices often face greater vulnerability, lacking union representation or access to formal grievance procedures.
DP spokesperson Kim Hyun-jung also commented that "abuse is somewhat relative and subjective," implying that the complainant might have exaggerated the issue. This rhetoric has led to speculation that Kang's continued candidacy is not based on her qualifications but rather because many lawmakers could face similar allegations.
In his inaugural address, President Lee promised to establish a "true democratic republic where the will of the people is reflected in everyday governance." He now faces a critical decision on whether Kang's appointment aligns with that vision.
Meanwhile, senior presidential secretary for national unity, Kang Jun-wook, resigned on Monday following controversy over his past remarks supporting martial law and sympathizing with last year's violent protests at the Western District Court. His appointment had already raised concerns about the integrity of the administration's vetting process.