0
Lee Jin-sook, nominee for deputy prime minister and education minister, sits in thought during her confirmation hearing at the National Assembly’s Education Committee on July 16. / Source: Asia Today, Lee Byung-hwa

President Lee Jae-myung on July 20 withdrew the nomination of Vice Prime Minister and Education Minister nominee Lee Jin-sook, who faced mounting backlash over allegations of plagiarism. The decision came just 22 days after her nomination and underscored growing pressure for the new administration to improve its personnel vetting system, especially given its launch without a formal transition committee.

"President Lee has listened to a wide range of opinions and made a thoughtful decision to withdraw the nomination of Lee Jin-sook," said Woo Sang-ho, senior presidential secretary for political affairs, during a briefing. "As the appointing authority, the president weighed various factors in reaching this decision, and we ask the public for understanding."

Despite the decision to drop Lee Jin-sook, the administration signaled it will push ahead with the appointment of Kang Sun-woo as Minister of Gender Equality and Family, despite allegations of workplace misconduct. When asked directly whether Kang would be appointed, Woo responded, “Yes. Of the 11 nominees who have yet to be confirmed, only Lee Jin-sook's nomination was withdrawn.”

President Lee reportedly received a report on public sentiment regarding the cabinet nominees, particularly those who had completed their confirmation hearings. Woo explained that the report included “issues raised during the hearings, the nominees’ explanations, and subsequent public opinion trends.”

President Lee also held meetings the previous day with Democratic Party floor leader Kim Byung-ki and People Power Party interim leader Song Eon-seok to gather opinions on personnel matters.

"Some nominees were able to clarify suspicions during the hearings, while others were not,” Woo added. “The decision reflects a comprehensive consideration of public opinion, and we ask again for the people’s understanding.”