Jin Joong-kwon on Jo Dong-yeon's Resignation: "Park Chung-hee Did Not Raise Issues Below the Waist"

"Clearly a Restriction or Violation of Human Rights"

Former Dongyang University Professor Jin Joong-kwon Photo by Yonhap News

[Asia Economy Reporter Yoon Seul-gi] Regarding the resignation of Professor Jo Dong-yeon of Seokyeong University’s Department of Military Studies, who was appointed as the co-chairman of the Democratic Party’s joint election countermeasures committee amid personal life controversies, former Dongyang University professor Jin Jung-kwon criticized the public’s excessive interest in public figures, saying, "Is South Korea some kind of Islamic State sharing the same moral codex?"

On the 4th, former professor Jin posted on his Facebook, referring to the late President Park Chung-hee’s remark, "I don’t concern myself with matters below the waist," and said, "From the perspective of community versus individual, it is clearly a restriction or violation of human rights."

Former professor Jin explained, "In the United States, which has Puritanism as a background, politicians’ private lives are also subject to scrutiny, but in Europe, where such religious backgrounds are not allowed as the foundation of the state, it is common sense to stay out of others’ private lives," adding, "Since we do not yet have a clear consensus, it seems we are fussing over this."

He then expressed the opinion that "(there is) no need to make an issue of (a public figure’s private life)." He elaborated, "The social benefits gained by restricting public office for those with private lives are unclear, whereas the damage caused is relatively clear. From a liberal perspective, it is uncomfortable for the community to look into my bedroom. Private duties and public duties are completely different in nature."

Meanwhile, Professor Jo, who was the 'first recruit' of Democratic Party presidential candidate Lee Jae-myung, resigned on the 3rd. Senior spokesperson Ko Yong-jin of the election committee stated in a written briefing that "Chairman Jo once again expressed his intention to resign from the election committee chairmanship to Standing Chairman Song Young-gil," and "Chairman Song tried to dissuade him, but Chairman Jo was firm in his position that he must resign to protect his children from character assassination attacks."