Civil Group Calls for Resignation of Controversial Ministerial Candidates

On July 16, 2025, the civil organization Participatory Democracy (참여연대) urged the resignation of Kang Sun-woo (강선우), the Minister of Gender Equality and Family nominee, and Lee Jin-sook (이진숙), the Minister of Education nominee, due to various controversies surrounding their appointments in the first cabinet of President Lee Jae-myung's (이재명) administration.

In a statement, Participatory Democracy asserted that both candidates have demonstrated significant disqualifications for their ministerial roles, falling short of public expectations.

Regarding Kang Sun-woo, the organization highlighted the 'abuse of power' allegations involving her treatment of aides, which they described as a serious disqualification stemming from her misuse of her privileged position as a member of the National Assembly. They criticized her for failing to provide responsible explanations for the allegations, instead resorting to excuses and false justifications that have eroded public trust in high-ranking officials and the government.

Additionally, they condemned her inappropriate attempts to discredit whistleblowers by labeling them as 'malicious informants' and accused of causing severe internal conflicts and attendance issues. New allegations of obstructing employment and wage arrears concerning her aides have also emerged.

As for Lee Jin-sook, the organization pointed to allegations of research ethics violations due to suspected plagiarism in student papers and breaches of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act related to her children's early study abroad. They argued that these issues represent critical disqualifications for someone in charge of the education sector, stating that it is contradictory for a person who undermines educational fairness and legal standards to oversee educational policies.