YouTube Broadcast 'News Gongjang' Appearance Statement
"If Unable to Prove by Law... Political Methods Too"
Former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk hinted at running in next year's general election, stating that he is considering restoring his honor through non-legal means.
On the 6th, Cho appeared on the YouTube channel 'Kim Eo-jun's Humility is Difficult News Factory' and said, "I am currently on trial, and I will make every effort to explain and clarify legally as much as possible. If this is not accepted, I am thinking that I need to find a way to restore our honor through non-legal means."
Former Minister of Justice Cho Kuk, who was indicted on charges of admission corruption involving his children and allegations of covering up an inspection, is attending the continued second trial session held on the afternoon of the 16th at the Seoul High Court in Seocho-gu, Seoul. Photo by Yonhap News
Cho said, "I think my entire family has been slaughtered now," adding, "In that process, whether it was me or my family, we made various explanations, clarifications, and appeals on a legal level, but many of them seem not to have been accepted."
While stating, "I naturally respect the Supreme Court's ruling," Cho emphasized, "When a person’s explanations and clarifications are completely rejected within the current legal system, that person may have an instinct to explain and clarify through non-legal means, such as cultural, social, or political methods, and I believe that is also a citizen's right."
Regarding his daughter Cho Min, whose medical license was revoked, he said, "It was very difficult as a father," explaining, "Because I witnessed why my daughter wanted to become a doctor and the efforts she made to become one."
He continued, "Busan National University announced that the certificate of commendation from Dongyang University did not affect the admissions process, but the fact that she submitted a certificate that was ruled guilty led to the conclusion that it could be revoked. At first, my daughter did not understand well, and I also felt awkward, but once such a Supreme Court ruling is made, it must be followed."
Regarding his spouse, former Dongyang University professor Jeong Gyeong-sim, he said, "She served 1,150 days in prison," adding, "While in detention, she underwent two surgeries involving general anesthesia. Rehabilitation was somewhat incomplete, so walking was difficult, and when she was released, I saw that her leg muscles had significantly weakened, causing her to tremble."
Cho said, "She now needs a walking aid and is receiving immediate hospital treatment and rehabilitation therapy, so she has improved somewhat compared to when she was released," adding, "She will need to continue treatment and rehabilitation continuously until early next year. Even now, the experience of 1,150 days suddenly resurfaces, making her dazed and sometimes tearful."
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