Controversy Over 'Sex Crime Defense'... Jo Su-jin Withdraws as Candidate for Seoul Gangbuk-gu Eul District

Early Morning of the 22nd, Announces Resignation Intent via Facebook
"Different from Public Expectations... Please Stop Party Attacks"
Introduced as 'Human Rights Lawyer'... Controversy Over Sexual Crime Defense History

Attorney Jo Su-jin, who was selected as the Democratic Party of Korea candidate for Gangbuk-gu Eul, Seoul, announced her intention to withdraw early on the 22nd.

At around 12:46 a.m. that day, Attorney Jo stated on Facebook, "I am withdrawing my candidacy." She explained, "I started with the sole thought that the Yoon Seok-yeol administration's tyranny, monopolizing even legislative power, must be stopped," adding, "Regardless of how my candidacy is evaluated, this general election was more important."

On the 20th, at the launch ceremony of the Democratic Party of Korea Seoul Metropolitan Election Countermeasures Committee held at the National Assembly, Representative Lee Jae-myung is taking a commemorative photo with candidates Ryu Sam-young and Jo Su-jin.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

Attorney Jo said, "As a lawyer, I have always done my best for my clients, and if I became a member of the National Assembly, I intended to do everything I could solely for the residents of Gangbuk-gu and the people with the same attitude." However, she added, "It seems that my efforts did not meet the expectations of the people." She appealed, "If I continue my campaign, this controversy will persist during the election period," and urged, "Please stop further attacks on the party."

She expressed gratitude, saying, "I thank the party members who supported me with unprecedented overwhelming support in such a short time," and requested, "To the residents of Gangbuk-gu Eul who warmly welcomed me yesterday and today, please continue to support the party." She added, "Please ensure victory in the April 10 general election."

Originally, former lawmaker Jeong Bong-ju was selected as the candidate for Gangbuk-gu Eul, Seoul, but his nomination was canceled due to controversies including the 'crutch giveaway' and offensive remarks. Subsequently, Attorney Jo won the nomination after a primary against incumbent lawmaker Park Yong-jin. However, controversies arose immediately after the nomination due to revelations about her past legal work involving sexual crimes and wage arrears. Voices calling for her withdrawal emerged not only from the ruling party but also from women's organizations and within the Democratic Party.

Attorney Jo has served as the Secretary-General of the Lawyers for a Democratic Society (Minbyun) and as a director of the Roh Moo-hyun Foundation. After entering the primary, she introduced herself as a 'human rights lawyer' on YouTube and other platforms. However, she became embroiled in controversy due to her history of defending multiple sexual crime cases.

Screenshot of lawyer Jo Su-jin's Facebook page

On the 20th, Attorney Jo apologized, saying, "I am sorry to the party members and the public," and stated, "I apologize for causing concern as a National Assembly candidate starting politics in front of the people." She emphasized, "Although defending past sexual offenders and promoting it through my blog were activities conducted in compliance with the ethical standards of lawyers, I will prioritize justice over law and the people's expectations over the system as my value criteria."