Lee Jae-myung: "The Void Left by Cho Kuk is Big... Hope to See Him Again Soon"

Lee Jae-myung, Representative, Meets Kim Seon-min, Acting President
"Jo Guk Innovation Party Always Has 'Jo Guk'"
"I Have No Doubt They Will Help a Lot"

Democratic Party leader Lee Jae-myung (left) is greeting Kim Seon-min, Acting Party Leader of the Joguk Innovation Party, who paid a visit to the National Assembly on the morning of the 18th. Photo by Yonhap News

Lee Jae-myung, leader of the Democratic Party of Korea, expressed his regret over the imprisonment of former leader of the Joguk Innovation Party, Cho Guk.

On the 18th, Lee met with Kim Seon-min, acting leader of the Joguk Innovation Party, at the National Assembly. He began by saying, "It feels like a big void," and added, "Although former leader Cho is not present on the scene right now, there is always 'Cho Guk' in the Joguk Innovation Party, isn't there?" He continued, "As a result of playing a leading role as an icebreaker, although it is a confusing time, it seems that a clue to solving the problem has been opened," and said, "I hope we can cooperate well to create a democratic and innovative country where the people are properly recognized as the owners of the nation." In response, Acting Leader Kim said, "It was good when a two-shot of Leader Cho and Leader Lee was captured in the plenary session hall, and I think the public also felt a sense of stability," and added, "Leader Cho always spoke of Leader Lee. I have no doubt that he will continue to help a lot in the future." It was reported that during a subsequent private meeting, Lee expressed hope to see former leader Cho again soon.

On the same day, Acting Leader Kim also emphasized the urgency of prosecutorial reform. He stated, "The disgrace of the destruction of the Cho family began with a soft coup by the prosecution, and I believe the final point of that coup is martial law," and argued, "It is essential to address the fact that prosecutorial power is being fully utilized to eliminate political opponents." The Joguk Innovation Party had previously proposed, as party policy in August, bills including the Public Prosecution Office Act, the Serious Crime Investigation Office Act, the Investigation Procedure Act, and amendments to the Criminal Procedure Act, aiming to abolish the prosecution office. However, Democratic Party chief spokesperson Cho Seung-rae explained to reporters, "Leader Lee did not specifically talk about this," and added, "It was a matter of sharing the situation that the Joguk Innovation Party will speak more strongly about prosecutorial reform in the future."

Former leader of the Innovation Party, Cho Kuk, who was sentenced to 2 years in prison by the Supreme Court on charges including 'child admission corruption' and 'cover-up of Blue House inspection,' held a press conference at the National Assembly on the 12th. Photo by Kim Hyun-min

Meanwhile, former leader Cho was incarcerated on the 16th after the Supreme Court upheld the original sentence of two years in prison on the 12th. Regarding the confirmation of his prison sentence, he said, "I do not agree with the court's factual findings and application of the law, but I humbly accept the Supreme Court's ruling. I have come here to fulfill my duties as a citizen who abides by the national law," and added, "During my time in prison, I will deeply reflect on my flaws and limitations. Through reading, exercise, and reflection, I will strengthen both my body and mind." He also addressed supporters gathered in front of the detention center, saying, "Please do not cry and see me off brightly. Although the weather is cold, spring will come."