South Korean Justice Minister Resigns

The South Korean government continued to be shaken after the presidential office confirmed on November 23 that Justice Minister Kim Hyun Woong and senior presidential secretary Choi Jai Kyeong had submitted their resignations.

Mr. Kim Hyun Woong (left) and Mr. Choi Jai Kyeong - Photo: Joongang Daily

“Minister Kim believes it is the right thing to do after considering the situation. He submitted his resignation on Monday,” Joongang Daily quoted a statement from the justice ministry as saying. President Park Geun Hye has yet to accept the resignations, presidential spokesman Jung Young Kuk said.

Mr. Kim was appointed as justice minister in 2015 while Mr. Choi only took on the job of senior secretary in charge of civil affairs since October 2016.

Both resigned amid a political crisis in South Korea, with Park accused of abusing her power and allowing her close friend to profit from her ties to the president.

The investigation is looking into the involvement of presidential aides in helping Choi Soon-sil, Park’s close friend. Prosecutors last week charged Choi and a presidential aide with multiple charges, including coercion. Another former aide is accused of leaking information to Choi.

Prosecutors have vowed to be uncompromising in their investigation. Although Park is immune from prosecution under the South Korean constitution, she could still face trial after leaving the presidential palace.

According to Tuoi Tre