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Lee Jin-sook, nominee for deputy prime minister and education minister, listens to lawmakers’ questions during her confirmation hearing at the National Assembly’s education committee on July 16. / Source: AsiaToday

The presidential office remained tight-lipped on July 16 regarding the appointments of Gender Equality Minister nominee Kang Sun-woo and Education Minister nominee Lee Jin-sook, as public criticism continues to mount against both figures.

Kang, who completed her confirmation hearing the previous day, faces growing backlash over allegations of workplace abuse involving her aides. Meanwhile, Lee attempted to address accusations of plagiarism during her hearing but continues to face calls for resignation—not only from opposition lawmakers but also from progressive civic groups traditionally supportive of the government, such as the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union.

With concerns rising that a potential early withdrawal of ministerial nominees could damage the administration’s momentum, the decision has become a political dilemma for President Lee Jae-myung. Pushing through appointments despite unresolved controversies could create additional burdens for the ruling bloc.

Presidential spokesperson Kang Yoo-jung told reporters, “There is no change in our position. The presidential office will make a judgment after reviewing the confirmation hearings.” When asked whether a timeline for the appointments had been set, she said, “Nothing has been decided yet.” Regarding whether the allegations had been known in advance, she replied, “We will need to check on that,” choosing not to elaborate further.

Kang previously stated that the president’s office was carefully reviewing both the credibility and persuasiveness of Kang Sun-woo’s explanations regarding the abuse claims.

The ruling People Power Party also maintained a reserved stance. Floor spokesperson Baek Seung-ah said on MBC Radio, “The presidential office is monitoring the hearings and public opinion carefully. Once the hearings are complete, a comprehensive judgment will be made. We hope the public will assess the sincerity of the nominees’ apologies and explanations.”

Progressive groups such as the Progressive Party, the Korean Women’s Political Network, the Korean Women’s Association United, and the Korean Teachers and Education Workers Union have all called for the voluntary withdrawal of both nominees—further pressuring the presidential office and ruling party.

Meanwhile, President Lee officially appointed Baek Kyung-hoon as Minister of Science and ICT on July 15, marking the first confirmed appointment among his selected ministerial candidates.