Why Did South Korean President Lee Reject Cabinet Resignations?
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Synopsis
In a strategic move to ensure governmental stability, South Korean President Lee Jae-myung has declined the resignation offers from Cabinet members, retaining most while accepting only Justice Minister Park Sung-jae's resignation. This decision highlights the importance of continuity in state affairs during a critical transition in leadership.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae-myung rejected most Cabinet resignations to maintain stability.
- Only Justice Minister Park Sung-jae's resignation was accepted.
- The decision reflects the need for continuity in governance.
- Forming a new Cabinet could take weeks due to parliamentary processes.
- New appointments include Rep. Kim Min-seok as Prime Minister.
Seoul, June 4 (NationPress) President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea has opted to reject the resignation proposals from Cabinet members, with the exception of Justice Minister Park Sung-jae, in a bid to maintain stability in government operations, according to a statement from the presidential office.
Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Lee Ju-ho, who briefly acted as President, communicated the collective decision of the Cabinet to resign during a phone call with the newly elected President on his inaugural day. Nonetheless, President Lee accepted only Park's resignation.
“President Lee has made it clear that he will decline the Cabinet members' resignation offers except for Minister Park, emphasizing the importance of continuity in governance,” stated presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung during a press briefing.
Lee assumed his role immediately after winning the election, without a transition phase, following a snap election held to select a successor to former President Yoon Suk Yeol, who was removed due to a failed martial law attempt last December, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
This approach signifies the necessity of sustaining a working government, as a significant portion of the 21 Cabinet members is needed to establish a quorum for Cabinet meetings. Creating a new Cabinet could potentially take weeks, considering the process involves parliamentary confirmation hearings.
All Cabinet members appointed by Yoon submitted their resignations to the Ministry of Personnel Management on the Monday preceding the election.
Park, a close aide to Yoon, faced impeachment over allegations connected to the former President's martial law decree, which was annulled by the Constitutional Court in April.
In a significant move, President Lee nominated Rep. Kim Min-seok of the Democratic Party (DP)—a key campaign aide—as his candidate for Prime Minister, marking his initial personnel announcement since taking office.
Kim, a seasoned lawmaker with a history of student activism, played a crucial role in Lee's campaign.
“Kim possesses a wealth of legislative experience, profound policy knowledge regarding public welfare, an international outlook, and unifying leadership—qualities essential for steering the nation through challenges and rejuvenating the economy,” Lee stated during a press conference at the presidential office.
The nomination for Prime Minister will undergo parliamentary approval following a confirmation hearing.
Additionally, Lee appointed DP lawmaker Kang Hoon-sik, another significant campaign figure, as his chief of staff.
Veteran diplomat Wi Sung-lac has been designated as national security adviser, while former Unification Minister Lee Jong-seok is set to lead the National Intelligence Service.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize President Lee Jae-myung's recent actions as a calculated approach to ensure continuity and stability in South Korea's governance. By retaining most Cabinet members, he aims to avoid chaos during this transitional period, reflecting a commitment to effective leadership and public service.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did President Lee decline most resignations?
President Lee aimed to ensure continuity in government operations and maintain stability during a critical transition.
Who was the only Cabinet member whose resignation was accepted?
Justice Minister Park Sung-jae's resignation was the only one accepted by President Lee.
What is the significance of this decision?
This decision highlights the importance of a functioning government and the need for a quorum to convene Cabinet meetings.
What other appointments did President Lee make?
President Lee nominated Rep. Kim Min-seok as Prime Minister and appointed Kang Hoon-sik as chief of staff.
What challenges does the new Cabinet face?
The new Cabinet will need to undergo parliamentary confirmation hearings, which could delay its formation.
