Kang Hoon-sik Resigns, Urges Steady Work from Cheong Wa Dae Staff

Kang Hoon-sik, Chief of Staff to the President, expressed his resignation on September 21 and urged Cheong Wa Dae staff to maintain their focus, stating, "Regardless of my position, our team must not be shaken."
 
In an internal message to Cheong Wa Dae members, Kang acknowledged the sudden announcement, saying, "I understand this may cause confusion and concern."
 
He emphasized, "The tasks that Cheong Wa Dae must undertake and what we need to do in our respective roles remain unchanged. Our duty is to support the President's governance and care for the people's lives."
 
Kang added, "I hope you will continue to work steadfastly in your positions as usual. I will also fulfill my responsibilities without any gaps until the moment I am assigned to leave."
 
Earlier, Sung Gi-hong, Chief of Public Relations and Communication at Cheong Wa Dae, announced during a briefing that Kang had submitted his resignation to President Lee Jae-myung that morning. A Cheong Wa Dae official explained that Kang's resignation was a reflection of his comprehensive responsibility as Chief of Staff supporting the President.
 
The resignation comes amid a recent cabinet reshuffle where several ministerial candidates have withdrawn, raising questions about the personnel verification system at Cheong Wa Dae. Kang's decision is interpreted as an acknowledgment of his responsibility for the overall governance amid declining approval ratings and personnel controversies.
 
However, President Lee has not yet made a decision regarding Kang's resignation. During the 47th Chief Secretaries' meeting that afternoon, President Lee remarked, "It seems our Chief of Staff has finally decided to graduate today," adding, "I have not yet decided what to do."
 
President Lee commended his staff, noting, "Many, including the Chief of Staff, have worked hard during this physically demanding period." Kang continued to perform his duties, including seeing off the President and First Lady as they departed for the United Nations General Assembly and a state visit to Mexico.