Will South Korea's Justice Ministry Include Cho Kuk in Special Pardons for Liberation Day?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As Liberation Day approaches, South Korea's Justice Ministry is set to review candidates for special pardons. The spotlight is on former party leader Cho Kuk, who faces serious charges. Will he be granted clemency by the new administration? Stay tuned as political intrigue unfolds around this significant decision.
Key Takeaways
- Justice Ministry to review special pardons for Liberation Day.
- Focus on former party leader Cho Kuk amidst speculation.
- Pardons aim to promote national harmony and good behavior.
- Committee meeting scheduled to finalize beneficiaries.
- Potential inclusion of other notable figures under consideration.
Seoul, Aug 7 (NationPress) The Justice Ministry of South Korea is preparing to assess a list of individuals eligible for special pardons in honor of Liberation Day next week. A significant point of interest is whether former minor party leader Cho Kuk will be among those pardoned.
Currently serving a two-year prison sentence, Cho, who led the Rebuilding Korea Party, was convicted of academic fraud related to his children and for unlawfully interfering with a government inspection, following a final ruling by the Supreme Court last December, as reported by Yonhap.
In recent weeks, political factions and local media have been speculating about Cho's potential inclusion in the upcoming pardons, marking the first such decision by President Lee Jae Myung since he assumed office in June.
The ministry's pardon review committee, led by Minister Jung Sung-ho, is scheduled to meet at 2 p.m. to evaluate the qualifications of candidates for the pardons, with an announcement expected during a Cabinet meeting on Tuesday.
Former President Moon Jae-in has advocated for Cho's pardon during a recent meeting with Woo Sang-ho, the senior presidential secretary for political affairs.
Other notable candidates under consideration include Cho Hee-yeon, the former superintendent of the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, who lost his position last year following a Supreme Court ruling that upheld a suspended sentence for abuse of power related to the reinstatement of dismissed teachers.
Special pardons are part of the president's inherent powers and are typically granted to politicians, business leaders, and other offenders at the start of the year or around Liberation Day to promote good behavior and national unity.
However, it remains uncertain if prominent politicians will feature in the initial list of pardons from the Lee administration, which may prioritize the needs of the socially vulnerable.
Point of View
Our stance remains aligned with the nation’s best interests. The upcoming review of special pardons by the Justice Ministry is a significant moment in South Korea's political narrative. It reflects the balance between justice and mercy, particularly in cases involving high-profile figures. The focus should be on fostering unity and addressing the needs of the socially vulnerable rather than solely on political figures.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of special pardons in South Korea?
Special pardons are granted to promote good behavior and national harmony, often awarded to convicted politicians and business leaders.
Who is Cho Kuk?
Cho Kuk is a former minor party leader currently serving a two-year prison term for academic fraud and unlawful interference with a government inspection.
When is Liberation Day celebrated in South Korea?
Liberation Day is celebrated on August 15th each year, marking the end of Japanese colonial rule.
Who heads the pardon review committee in South Korea?
The pardon review committee is led by Minister Jung Sung-ho.
What is the significance of the pardon review this year?
This year marks the first review of pardons under President Lee Jae Myung, making it particularly significant in the political landscape.
