Political Risk from Cheong Minjung Chief Emerges as a Variable in the Political Landscape... Controversy Over Messages Sent to Acquaintances Raises More Questions
[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] The controversy surrounding the position of Shin Hyun-soo, Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs at the Blue House, is expected to reach a turning point on the 22nd. As he is known to be going to the Blue House, attention is focused on what message he will deliver.
The political risk triggered by the Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs at the Blue House has not subsided. The opposition party is pressuring the ruling party by politicizing the issue of Shin's position, while the Blue House and the ruling party cannot hide their embarrassment over the ongoing controversy. This controversy arose during a disagreement between Minister of Justice Park Beom-gye and Senior Secretary Shin over prosecutorial personnel appointments.
The Blue House unusually acknowledged the disagreement between Minister Park and Senior Secretary Shin. Although this was a political move to prevent unnecessary suspicion from spreading, it ultimately admitted that the discord within the ruling party is factual. Senior Secretary Shin took leave on the 18th and 19th. While there is speculation that he may not return to work normally, he is reported to be scheduled to return on Monday, the 22nd.
Whatever choice he makes, it is said that he will show responsibility as a public official. However, it is questionable whether Senior Secretary Shin can resume normal duties as if nothing happened. The ongoing controversy surrounding his position is a burden not only to himself but also to President Moon Jae-in, who holds the personnel authority.
There is also speculation that trust in Minister Park has effectively collapsed. Doubts have intensified as it was reported that Senior Secretary Shin sent a text message to an acquaintance stating he would never meet Minister Park again in his lifetime. However, the Blue House has not taken a clear stance on specific matters such as whether the text message was actually sent.
The ruling party is closely watching the fact that the Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs appointed by President Moon has caused a controversy over his position less than two months after taking office, but is withholding comments considering the sensitivity of the matter. Inside the Blue House, they are also waiting for Senior Secretary Shin’s decision for the time being.
At 2 p.m. on the 22nd, a meeting of senior secretaries and aides at the Blue House is scheduled to be held. It will be important to observe whether Senior Secretary Shin will attend the meeting normally if he returns to work that day, or if he will deliver a message deciding his position beforehand.
The ruling party is on high alert over this issue because it is a matter that could escalate politically beyond the position of a single public official. Since it could also be a negative factor for the by-elections for Seoul Mayor and Busan Mayor scheduled for April 7, the ruling party’s concerns are expected to grow.
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