Cheong Wa Dae: "Kim Jowon Senior Secretary Leaves Polite Farewell Message in Cheong Wa Dae Group Chat Before Exiting"

Cheong Wa Dae, Kim Jo-won Chief Claims Criticism of 'Sour Exit' Is a Misunderstanding... "Planned to Go on Vacation from the 10th"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy reporters Ryu Jeong-min and Son Seon-hee] The Blue House clarified the controversy over a "grudging exit," stating that Chief Secretary for Civil Affairs Kim Jo-won greeted President Moon Jae-in before leaving prior to his resignation.

On the afternoon of the 11th, Blue House spokesperson Kang Min-seok said during a briefing at the Press Hall, "We will accurately inform you of the facts regarding Chief Secretary Kim Jo-won," adding, "After submitting his resignation on Friday (the 7th), Chief Secretary Kim stayed late at the Blue House to wrap up current affairs, greeted the President, and then left the Blue House."

Spokesperson Kang explained, "He also left a polite farewell message in the Blue House group chat before exiting," and clarified, "Originally, Chief Secretary Kim planned to take leave starting from the 10th. There have been many reports, but expressions like 'grudging exit' are a significant misunderstanding of the facts."