Yong Hye-in, the candidate for the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family, has resigned following a suggestion from Kim Min-seok, the leader of the Democratic Party.
Kim Tae-sun, the party leader's secretary, announced on Facebook that he conveyed Kim's suggestion for Yong to resign, which was based on public sentiment.
He stated, "While the issue of holding both a proportional representative position and a ministerial role may not be legally problematic, it does not fully align with the public's expectations and sentiments." He expressed hope that Yong would continue to play a significant role in realizing the values of progressive politics, completing progressive solidarity, and reforming the electoral system.
Yong also held a press conference at the National Assembly, stating, "I received a message from the Democratic Party respecting the situation of the candidate and the Basic Income Party, but asking me to make a decision considering the lack of public consensus on holding both the proportional representative position and the ministerial role."
She added, "As a cabinet member, I must connect the National Assembly and the government and foster cooperation. Given that the ruling party has expressed concerns, I found it difficult to carry out my duties. I believe stepping down is necessary to continue the spirit of solidarity within the democratic progressive camp."
In response to Yong's resignation, the People Power Party intensified its criticism, highlighting the responsibilities of the Blue House and the Democratic Party. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk stated on Facebook that it was likely more beneficial for the organization to keep the Basic Income Party in the National Assembly than to appoint Yong as a minister. He emphasized that this issue should not end with Yong's resignation, calling for a thorough investigation into the reality of the 'leftist cartel.'
Floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik remarked that if the Blue House had simply asked, "Are you okay with resigning from your position as a lawmaker before the ministerial nomination?" this situation could have been avoided. He urged President Lee Jae-myung to apologize to the public for this personnel debacle and to take responsible actions regarding the Blue House's personnel line.
Kim Tae-sun, the party leader's secretary, announced on Facebook that he conveyed Kim's suggestion for Yong to resign, which was based on public sentiment.
He stated, "While the issue of holding both a proportional representative position and a ministerial role may not be legally problematic, it does not fully align with the public's expectations and sentiments." He expressed hope that Yong would continue to play a significant role in realizing the values of progressive politics, completing progressive solidarity, and reforming the electoral system.
Yong also held a press conference at the National Assembly, stating, "I received a message from the Democratic Party respecting the situation of the candidate and the Basic Income Party, but asking me to make a decision considering the lack of public consensus on holding both the proportional representative position and the ministerial role."
She added, "As a cabinet member, I must connect the National Assembly and the government and foster cooperation. Given that the ruling party has expressed concerns, I found it difficult to carry out my duties. I believe stepping down is necessary to continue the spirit of solidarity within the democratic progressive camp."
In response to Yong's resignation, the People Power Party intensified its criticism, highlighting the responsibilities of the Blue House and the Democratic Party. Party leader Jang Dong-hyuk stated on Facebook that it was likely more beneficial for the organization to keep the Basic Income Party in the National Assembly than to appoint Yong as a minister. He emphasized that this issue should not end with Yong's resignation, calling for a thorough investigation into the reality of the 'leftist cartel.'
Floor leader Jeong Jeom-sik remarked that if the Blue House had simply asked, "Are you okay with resigning from your position as a lawmaker before the ministerial nomination?" this situation could have been avoided. He urged President Lee Jae-myung to apologize to the public for this personnel debacle and to take responsible actions regarding the Blue House's personnel line.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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