청와대 'Personnel Blocking' Controversy... "Moon's Term Until May 9"

On the 26th, when the concentration of ultrafine dust showed a 'bad' level due to stagnant air, the Blue House in Seoul appeared hazy. Photo by Moon Honam munonam@

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] The Blue House responded on the 15th to the controversy over the 'personnel entrenchment' at the end of the Moon Jae-in administration, stating, "The Moon Jae-in administration's term lasts until May 9."

When asked whether there had been a request from the president-elect's side for personnel consultations regarding public enterprises, a Blue House official replied, "We are not aware of any consultation requests," adding, "The clear fact is that the Moon Jae-in administration's term lasts until May 9, and it is natural to exercise personnel authority granted during the term."

Regarding the appointment of the Governor of the Bank of Korea, the official said, "Since the Governor's term ends during the president's tenure, it is natural to prepare for the transition."

On the same day, the Blue House announced that President Moon and President-elect Yoon Seok-youl will meet on the 16th. However, there was some confusion as the Yoon side announced it first. In response, a Blue House official said, "There was uncertainty because discussions and consultations were ongoing until the last moment."

The meeting is expected to discuss the pardon of former President Lee Myung-bak. Regarding predictions from the opposition that the pardon of former Gyeongnam Governor Kim Kyung-soo will also be granted, the official refrained from commenting, saying, "Pardons are the president's exclusive authority, so it is not appropriate for me to comment."

Regarding the Yoon Seok-youl camp's criticism of the Office of Civil Affairs and their push for its abolition, the official said, "The decision on whether to maintain or abolish it is a policy judgment issue," adding, "It is inappropriate to cite actions not taken by the current government as grounds for abolishing the Office of Civil Affairs."

He continued, "The Office of Civil Affairs under the Moon Jae-in administration has faithfully fulfilled its duties as prescribed by law, including listening to public opinion, legal assistance, anti-corruption coordination, and managing relatives."