Will the South Korean Cabinet Grant a Pardon to Ex-Justice Minister?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal move for South Korean politics, President Lee Jae Myung will chair an extraordinary Cabinet meeting on Monday to decide on special pardons, with a strong possibility that former Justice Minister Cho Kuk could be among the beneficiaries. This critical decision may reshape the political landscape ahead of the upcoming elections.
Key Takeaways
- President Lee Jae Myung will chair a Cabinet meeting on special pardons.
- Cho Kuk is a key figure under consideration for a presidential pardon.
- The meeting will focus on clemency measures and reinstatements.
- Special pardons typically coincide with national holidays.
- The outcome could influence South Korea's political dynamics.
Seoul, Aug 10 (NationPress) South Korean President Lee Jae Myung is set to lead an extraordinary Cabinet meeting on Monday to deliberate on special pardons, as announced by his office on Sunday. There is increasing speculation regarding a potential presidential pardon for former Justice Minister Cho Kuk.
The Cabinet meeting is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on Monday, focusing on reviewing and possibly approving matters concerning special pardons, reinstatements, and various clemency considerations, as detailed by presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung in a message to the press.
Reports suggest that President Lee is likely to decide on granting a presidential pardon to Cho, who established the minor Rebuilding Korea Party prior to the general elections in April last year, according to the Yonhap news agency.
Cho has been mentioned as a candidate for the upcoming presidential pardons, which raises the likelihood of his early release from incarceration.
Currently, he is serving a two-year sentence following his conviction on charges of academic fraud involving his children and unlawful interference in a government inspection.
Presidents typically issue special pardons to coincide with significant national holidays, such as Liberation Day on August 15, which commemorates Korea's independence from Japanese colonial rule (1910–45).
On August 7, legal sources indicated that a committee from the Justice Ministry convened and recommended including Cho on the special pardon list, which is expected to be finalized and approved in the upcoming Cabinet meeting.
Also included in the discussions is former lawmaker Choe Kang-wook, who received an eight-month prison sentence in 2023, suspended for two years, for business obstruction related to issuing a false internship certificate for Cho's son in 2017 while he was a lawyer at a law firm.
Given that the list is shaped through discussions between the presidential office and the ministry, it would be highly improbable for the committee to exclude Cho from the finalized list.
Point of View
This situation highlights the intricate balance between justice and political maneuvering in South Korea. As President Lee Jae Myung weighs the implications of granting pardons, it is essential to recognize the broader impact on public trust and the rule of law. The decision must reflect a commitment to fairness while considering the political ramifications.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the Cabinet meeting?
The Cabinet meeting is crucial as it will determine potential special pardons, including for former Justice Minister Cho Kuk, which could impact the political landscape.
Who is Cho Kuk?
Cho Kuk is a former Justice Minister in South Korea, currently serving a two-year prison term for academic fraud and other charges.
What are the usual occasions for presidential pardons?
Presidential pardons in South Korea are typically granted during significant national holidays, such as Liberation Day on August 15.
What led to Cho Kuk's imprisonment?
Cho Kuk was convicted of academic fraud involving his children and unlawful interference with a government inspection.
What other figures are being considered for pardons?
Former lawmaker Choe Kang-wook is also being considered for a special pardon, having received a suspended sentence for business obstruction.
