Kang Mijeong: "Not Considering Return to Cho Kuk Innovation Party... I Respectfully Decline"

Kang Mijeong: "Ensuring the Safety of Victims Comes First"
Chairman Cho Kuk's Request for Reinstatement Declined

Cho Kuk, Emergency Response Committee Chairman of the Cho Kuk Innovation Party, requested that former spokesperson Kang Mijeong, who left the party after raising concerns about a sexual misconduct issue within the party, be reinstated. However, his request was declined. Former spokesperson Kang stated, "I am not considering rejoining the party," and added, "I respectfully decline."

On September 12, through her social media account, Kang said, "I have already made my intentions clear enough," and continued, "Nevertheless, I appreciate that you have reached out to me again. I respectfully decline your offer."

Cho Kuk, Emergency Response Committee Chairman of the Cho Kuk Innovation Party. Photo by Kim Hyunmin

In the same post, she called for the protection of victims in relation to the sexual misconduct case within the Innovation Party. Kang stated, "What is needed now is not to repeatedly mention specific names, but to ensure that the victims are protected safely," and added, "I hope you understand that even mentioning my name is causing further harm."

She also said, "In particular, I ask that all insulting and unjust remarks directed at advisor Kang Misook, who has stood with the victims, be stopped immediately." She emphasized, "Attacks against the victims and those who assist them constitute a secondary harm that undermines the foundation of victim protection, and this can never be tolerated." She went on to say, "Victim protection and recovery must be given the highest priority," and strongly requested, "I urge a thorough investigation and responsible measures regarding the secondary harm that has been carried out secretly or openly within the party until now."

Previously, the Innovation Party announced through a press release, "Chairman Cho has consistently maintained that he wants former spokesperson Kang to resume her role as spokesperson," and added, "We will do our utmost to make her feel welcome to return to the party." The party also stated, "Chairman Cho would like to meet with former spokesperson Kang Mijeong at any time she wishes."