"Candidate was initially very surprised and shocked"
"President Lee's concern: 'We need to create a rainbow, not a hodgepodge'"
Possibility of appointing additional conservative figures remains open
Presidential Chief of Staff Kang Hoon-sik stated that regarding the nomination of candidate Lee Hye-hoon, President Lee is aware that this matter is a challenge, but there was also a sense that it is necessary to demonstrate a willingness to achieve unity in order to move forward with more of the public. Kang also mentioned that he understands candidate Lee was very surprised and shocked when first offered the position.
On January 2, appearing on the YouTube channel "Modesty Is Difficult: Kim Eo-jun's News Factory," Chief of Staff Kang said, "President Lee is also aware that this is a challenge," but added, "He recognizes that this is an issue difficult to resolve unless we take on the challenge." He continued, "He was briefed on remarks related to insurrection and martial law, and he also confirmed the candidate's willingness to apologize."
Kang went on to say, "In the President's words, the concern is not to create a 'hodgepodge' but a 'rainbow,' and I hope this challenge will be successful. For now, I believe the candidate's policy vision and philosophy will be thoroughly examined during the confirmation hearing." He added, "When the candidate first received the offer, I understand she was very surprised and found it shocking."
Regarding the reason candidate Lee accepted the nomination, Kang interpreted it as the result of a genuine commitment to unity. He said, "I understand that the candidate deeply resonated with the President's efforts to go beyond partisan lines." He added, "They shared the understanding that all forces must be united to revive the national economy, and this consensus led to her acceptance."
Addressing criticism from some quarters that "there are many outstanding people within our own camp," Kang responded, "Of course, there are many excellent individuals in our camp," but explained, "The President is not denying that; rather, the intention is to show the will for unity to a broader public by taking on such challenging tasks."
Kang also left open the possibility of appointing additional 'conservative figures' to vacant positions such as the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries. He said, "I can't say this will continue," but explained that while those with clear issues related to martial law or insurrection should be excluded, there is no reason to intentionally exclude individuals from a particular camp.
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