President Moon's Decision on Shin Hyun-soo's Chief of Civil Affairs Position Imminent... Key to Restoring Mediator Role Shaken by Prosecutor Personnel Controversy
[Asia Economy Reporter Ryu Jeong-min] Subtle shifts in the internal atmosphere of the Blue House are being detected regarding the position of Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs Shin Hyun-soo.
When the Blue House issued a message on the 22nd stating that the matter was "definitely settled for now," the prevailing view was that the controversy surrounding Senior Secretary Shin's position would enter a resolution phase. This was because he had conveyed his intention to do his best in his duties after leaving the decision about his position to President Moon Jae-in.
However, the nuance of Chief Presidential Secretary Yoo Young-min’s remarks at the National Assembly Steering Committee on the 24th was different. In particular, Yoo delivered a meaningful message saying, "(The resignation) may be accepted..." When People Power Party floor leader Joo Ho-young asked, "What exactly is the current status?" Yoo replied, "Since work must continue, I believe the President is considering it."
What deserves attention is that Senior Secretary Shin has suffered wounds that may be irreparable due to the controversy surrounding the announcement of high-level personnel in the prosecution. There is doubt as to whether he can continue to serve as a mediator and coordinator between the Ministry of Justice and the prosecution. If that role is not restored, it may become difficult for him to perform the duties of Senior Secretary for Civil Affairs normally. The Blue House conveyed President Moon’s concerns by describing it as a "difficult decision."
If Senior Secretary Shin is replaced during the cabinet reshuffle and the reorganization of the Blue House staff, the political backlash may be relatively less severe. This is because it can be interpreted as part of a natural reorganization. However, if a "one-point" personnel change is made specifically for Senior Secretary Shin, controversies that had been submerged, such as the appropriateness of the prosecution personnel appointments, could be reignited.
The concern is that President Moon must directly manage the situation in some form. There is no time to wait until the political controversy subsides. It means a choice must be made to either secure Senior Secretary Shin’s ability to carry out his duties or replace him with a new figure. Regarding this, Chief Secretary Yoo conveyed this message: "(President Moon) will make a decision soon. How long can this awkward situation last?"
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
