[Asia Economy Reporter Jeon Jinyoung] Yoo Si-min, the 5th chairman of the People’s Life Foundation Roh Moo-hyun Foundation, will step down on the 14th after completing a three-year term. Regarding the possibility of participating in the election campaign committee of Lee Jae-myung, the presidential candidate of the Democratic Party of Korea (current Governor of Gyeonggi Province), Yoo drew a clear line, saying, “How could I possibly join an election campaign?”
In his farewell address on the day, Chairman Yoo explained the reason for his resignation, saying, “I am a person who relates to the world through writing and speaking. During my tenure as chairman, my acts of freely writing and speaking often conflicted with the position of foundation chairman,” and added, “To avoid such risks, I decided not to renew or extend my term as chairman.”
He said, “There have been remarks by some politicians and media reports suggesting that I might participate in the Democratic Party presidential candidate’s election campaign after stepping down as foundation chairman. Participation in a presidential candidate’s campaign is an important and meaningful task that carries great responsibility,” and continued, “If the candidate becomes president, they must be prepared to participate in politics and administration to fulfill shared responsibilities. However, I have no intention of running for election or becoming a public official again,” drawing a clear boundary.
He emphasized, “How could I join an election campaign without the willingness to take responsibility for my share?” and “I will return to my original place, relating to the world through writing and speaking.”
On the previous day, Chairman Yoo visited Bongha Village in Gimhae, Gyeongnam, paid respects at the grave of the late former President Roh Moo-hyun, and met with Mrs. Kwon Yang-sook.
He added, “President Roh Moo-hyun, who lived like a river that never gives up the sea, is now entering the hearts of the people like a sea that embraces all rivers,” and “I am a lifelong member of the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation and will continue to be with the supporting members as a citizen who lives by writing.”
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