Korean Presidential Office Confirms Resignation of Controversial Official

On July 22, 2025, 강준욱 (Kang Jun-wook), the National Integration Secretary of the Presidential Office, announced his resignation following controversy over his defense of former President 윤석열 (Yoon Suk-yeol)'s declaration of a state of emergency. The Presidential Office stated that they plan to appoint a successor from conservative circles.

During a briefing, spokesperson 강유정 (Kang Yu-jeong) confirmed that Kang expressed his intention to resign this morning, stating that he wishes to sincerely apologize to the public for his mistakes. President 이재명 (Lee Jae-myung) has accepted this resignation in response to public demands.

Kang explained that the role of National Integration Secretary was created to end divisive politics and foster unity among the people, reflecting the President's commitment to inclusivity. However, he acknowledged that there has been strong public sentiment against Kang's appointment, which was made based on recommendations from conservative figures, as it did not align with the principles of a government that prioritizes the sovereignty of the people.

Despite the controversy, Kang insisted that there were no issues with the personnel verification system, stating that unexpected problems had emerged that were not identified during the vetting process.

Earlier this year, Kang published a book titled '야만의 민주주의' (Democracy of Barbarism), where he described the emergency declaration as a 'systematic action' taken in response to the oppression by the ruling party. He also made inflammatory remarks, labeling members of the 더불어민주당 (Democratic Party) and 정의당 (Justice Party) as 'red bastards.' Reports have surfaced suggesting that he denied past Supreme Court rulings related to forced mobilization.

On July 20, Kang issued an apology, and while the Presidential Office initially intended to maintain his position, calls for his dismissal continued from within the ruling party. It appears that the Presidential Office has decided to resolve the controversy through Kang's voluntary resignation.